Widow Of WWII Vet Killed By Deputy Takes Legal Action Against Santa Clara County

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA -- The wife of a U.S. Navy and World War II veteran who was shot dead inside his Saratoga home in September 2016 by a Santa Clara County Sheriff’s deputy has filed a legal complaint against the deputy and the county alleging, among other things, excessive force and wrongful death.

Eugene Craig, 86, was killed after deputies arrived for a welfare check at his home on the 12000 block Titus Avenue in Saratoga around 7:50 p.m. Sept. 12.

Arriving deputies attempted to contact a person, later identified as Craig, inside the home for about 50 minutes before they went around and entered the building through a back door, Jensen said.

Deputies found Craig, who was holding a loaded handgun, and told him to drop the weapon, according to sheriff's Lt. James Jensen.

The elderly veteran allegedly brandished the firearm at deputies and Ulrich shot him, Jensen said. Craig was transported to a hospital where he died, according to the sheriff's office.

According to the complaint filed by attorneys for Eugene Craig's widow, Harue Craig, who was age 90 at the time, she and her husband were relaxing at home when they heard what sounded like intruders breaking in.

"Arming himself with his .38 caliber revolver, Mr. Craig stood in front of his wife as the intruder forced his way into their home after smashing through two doors," the complaint, which was filed April 17, reads in part. "Mr. Craig was gunned down by multiple shots as his wife cowered behind him. Despite breaking no laws, Mr. Craig was gunned down and killed by Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Deputy Douglas Ulrich."

The complaint demands compensatory and punitive damages, although no exact dollar amount is mentioned. It also accuses the county of not adequately training the deputy who shot Eugene Craig and infliction of emotional distress.

The Sheriff's Office has yet to comment to Patch on the legal complaint.

Previous coverage: Officials ID Elderly Man Shot By Santa Clara Co. Deputy

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