Northland Mall Death Caused by Position, Compression, Asphyxia
(Crystal A. Proxmire, March 12, 2014)
The investigation into 25-year-old McKenzie Cochran’s death continues as the medical examiner’s report has been released, listing the cause of death as “accidental position, compression, asphyxia,” according to Local 4 News.
On Jan.28 the man had a verbal confrontation with mall security guards, who pepper-sprayed him and held him to the ground.  Witness’s cell phone recordings show  Cochran telling guards that he couldn’t breathe.  Efforts to revive him were futile.
Security had been called by the owner of jewelry store who felt threatened by Cochran’s presence, and said the man threatened to kill somebody.
Cochran’s family has retained attorney Gerald Thruswell to sue the mall, security guards, and security company for $800 million.
At a previous press conference, Southfield Mayor Brenda Lawrence assured the public that an investigation would be diligently handled. “We want it to be very clear that the investigation of this incident is a priority and that it will be conducted thoroughly,” Lawrence said. “It is never an easy thing to lose a child, and I have personally called the family to express that on behalf of the city and myself to let them know that we do extend our condolences,” Lawrence said.
Southfield Police have not yet determined if charges will be filed against the security guards.
Read previous stories, including video of the Southfield Police and Mayor’s press conference at:
http://oaklandcounty115.com/2014/02/10/investigation-continues-in-northland-mall-death-video/
http://oaklandcounty115.com/2014/01/30/ferndale-resident-dead-after-being-restrained-by-mall-security/