Baltimore officials reached a $6.4 million settlement with the family of Freddie Gray, who died April 19, 2015 in Baltimore, Maryland from the results of injuries obtained in police custody during an arrest.

Two police officers on bikes “made eye contact” with Gray while out on patrol and Gray ran, and the officers allegedly saw a knife in his pocket. He was arrested for carrying an unlawful weapon.

He sustained a “high-energy injury” while in custody that left him in a coma. He died later that day.  

The wrongful death settlement will not affect the criminal charges against the six police officers who had a part in Gray’s arrest and death, but Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake said the settlement would avoid a drawn-out civil case against the city or the police department.

Baltimore police union president said the deal was “obscene.” But, we disagree.

We do not believe a price can be put on a human life. Giving Gray’s family millions of dollars won’t bring him back or make up for the loss they feel.

Although the process seems rushed, we understand the city’s desire to try to close this wound and begin the healing process for a city scarred by racial tension and protests.

We believe the trials will be a final way for justice to be given to Freddie Gray and his family.

The above editorial is the consensus opinion of the editorial board of The Kent Stater.