Private autopsy alleges excessive force in death of man detained by Inglewood police

Family files legal claims against city, saying video shows violent encounter with officers

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:38am

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The family of Bryan Bostic, a 37-year-old man who died following a March 10 traffic stop by Inglewood police, has filed legal claims against the city alleging that officers used lethal and excessive force during his arrest. Witness video released by the family shows Bostic pinned to the ground by multiple officers, with one officer straddling his back. The family's attorney says a private autopsy suggests excessive force was a factor in Bostic's death, while the official cause is still pending further investigation by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

Why it matters

This incident has raised concerns about police use of force and transparency, as the family alleges the stop was unjustified and the officers' actions led to Bostic's death. It also highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and communities of color, with the family's attorney suggesting racial bias may have played a role.

The details

According to the family's attorney, Bostic was reportedly traveling to visit his girlfriend at a hospital when he was pulled over by Inglewood police around 9:30 p.m. on March 10. Witness video shows Bostic face down on the pavement with an officer straddling his back, while additional officers arrive to assist in pinning him down. The family's attorney says a private autopsy commissioned by the relatives suggests excessive force was a factor in Bostic's death, though the official cause is still pending further investigation.

  • Bostic was pulled over by Inglewood police around 9:30 p.m. on March 10.
  • Bostic died while in the custody of the Inglewood Police Department near the intersection of Hillcrest Boulevard and Nutwood Avenue.
  • On Monday, Bostic's relatives and their attorney released witness video and audio recordings of the incident.

The players

Bryan Bostic

A 37-year-old man who died following a March 10 traffic stop by Inglewood police.

Christian Gastelum

The family's attorney, who says a private autopsy suggests excessive force was a factor in Bostic's death.

James Butts

The mayor of Inglewood, who stated that officers initiated the stop because Bostic appeared to be attempting to conceal an item.

Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office

The office currently investigating the circumstances of Bostic's arrest.

Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner

The office that has confirmed Bostic died at a law enforcement facility, but deferred the official cause of death pending further laboratory results.

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What they’re saying

“We must get to the bottom of this tragic incident and ensure that justice is served.”

— Christian Gastelum, Family attorney

“Officers initiated the stop around 9:30 p.m. and reported that Bostic appeared to be attempting to conceal an item.”

— James Butts, Inglewood Mayor

What’s next

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office is currently investigating the circumstances of Bostic's arrest, and the official cause of death is still pending further laboratory results.

The takeaway

This incident has raised serious concerns about police use of force and transparency, particularly in communities of color. It underscores the need for continued scrutiny and accountability around law enforcement actions that may lead to the loss of life.