Family of Canton Man Who Died in Police Custody Files $13M Lawsuit

Lawsuit claims officers used excessive force, failed to provide medical aid during fatal 2024 incident

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:55am

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An extreme close-up of a pair of metal handcuffs against a completely black background, the harsh lighting creating dramatic shadows and textures to convey a sense of gritty investigation into a tragic incident.The family's lawsuit alleges officers used excessive force that led to a man's death in police custody, raising renewed concerns about policing practices.Canton Today

The family of Frank Tyson has filed a $13 million federal lawsuit against the City of Canton and several police and fire department officials, claiming officers used excessive force that led to Tyson's death while in police custody in 2024. The lawsuit alleges the officers failed to provide proper medical aid as Tyson lay unconscious, contributing to his death.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about police use of force and accountability, as well as the treatment of individuals by first responders during medical emergencies. It comes amid a broader national conversation around policing practices and reforms.

The details

According to the lawsuit, officers Beau Schoenegge and Camden Burch "killed Decedent Tyson in the same manner that Minneapolis police killed George Floyd in 2020." The officers face criminal charges of reckless homicide and are set to stand trial in August. The lawsuit also names several other police and fire department supervisors and personnel as defendants.

  • On April 18, 2024, Canton police responded to a reported single-car crash and encountered Tyson, the suspected driver.
  • In August 2024, the Stark County Coroner's Office ruled Tyson's death a homicide.
  • In November 2024, a grand jury indicted officers Schoenegge and Burch on charges of reckless homicide.

The players

Frank Tyson

The 32-year-old Canton resident who died while in police custody in 2024.

Beau Schoenegge

A Canton police officer charged with reckless homicide in Tyson's death.

Camden Burch

A Canton police officer charged with reckless homicide in Tyson's death.

John D. Gabbard

The Canton Police Chief named as a defendant in the lawsuit.

Kyle Stone

The Stark County Prosecutor who reviewed the investigation and presented evidence to the grand jury.

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What they’re saying

“Based off the information that was presented to the (the grand jury), they believed that (reckless homicide) was the most accurate charge, and that's why they voted on it and that's why they indicted those officers on those charges.”

— Kyle Stone, Stark County Prosecutor

What’s next

The two officers charged with reckless homicide are set to face trial on August 10, 2026.

The takeaway

This lawsuit highlights the ongoing need for police accountability and reform, as well as proper medical protocols for first responders, in order to prevent future tragic deaths in police custody.