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MSU campus shooting survivors secure multimillion-dollar settlements for three students critically injured in the 2023 mass shooting.
Michigan State University Finalizes Nearly $30 Million in Settlements After 2023 Campus Shooting
LANSING — In a significant legal development, Michigan State University (MSU) has reached a settlement totaling $29.75 million with three students who survived the mass shooting on its campus on February 13, 2023. The agreements were announced Tuesday by attorneys Mick Grewal and Scott Weidenfeller of Grewal Law, and William Azkoul of Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman.
The February 2023 shooting claimed the lives of three students and left five others wounded. The attack, which rattled the university and the state, triggered renewed debates in Michigan over campus safety, mental health services, and gun control policy.
Detailed Settlements for Three MSU Campus Shooting Survivers Who Suffered Life-Altering Injuries
The three plaintiffs—Nathan Statly, Yukai “John” Hao, and Troy Forbush—each suffered catastrophic injuries during the attack and have undergone extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
Nathan Statly, a junior majoring in environmental biology and zoology at the time, was shot in the head and sustained profound brain injuries. Represented by Grewal Law, Statly secured a $14.25 million settlement. The payout covers his extensive physical injuries, emotional trauma, pain and suffering, as well as long-term impairment.
Yukai “John” Hao, a Chinese international student studying economics, was left paralyzed from the chest down after being shot in the back. Represented by Gruel Mills, Hao reached a $13 million settlement with the university. In addition to financial compensation, MSU agreed to waive tuition, room, and board costs and will provide full health insurance coverage for Hao throughout the completion of both his undergraduate and graduate studies.
Troy Forbush, who was double majoring in music education and vocal performance, suffered a gunshot wound to the chest resulting in serious lung damage. Represented by Grewal Law, Forbush reached a $2.5 million settlement to cover physical and emotional damages, surgical costs, and rehabilitation expenses.
Legal Teams Emphasize Accountability and Closure for Survivors
Grewal Law Founder Mick Grewal and Senior Litigation Attorney Scott Weidenfeller, who represented Statly and Forbush, emphasized the gravity of the injuries sustained and the need for long-term care. “These settlements bring closure to one chapter of these survivors’ healing journeys,” the firm stated.
William Azkoul, principal attorney with Gruel Mills Nims & Pylman, underscored the significance of the university’s agreement to cover Hao’s educational and medical expenses in addition to the financial settlement.
The February 2023 Attack Remains a Pivotal Moment for Michigan
The mass shooting at Michigan State University was one of the most traumatic events in recent Michigan history. The gunman, who acted alone, opened fire at multiple campus locations before taking his own life. The event prompted widespread calls for enhanced security measures at Michigan’s public universities, as well as further scrutiny of Michigan’s gun laws.
In the wake of the shooting, the Michigan Legislature passed several gun reform bills, including universal background checks and safe storage requirements, which Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed into law in 2023. The incident continues to serve as a central reference point in Michigan’s ongoing debate over public safety and firearm regulation.
Settlement Provides Relief but Does Not End Long-Term Recovery Needs
While these settlements mark a legal resolution, the survivors still face ongoing challenges related to their injuries. Brain trauma, paralysis, and severe lung damage will require lifelong care, adaptive support, and financial resources.
The legal teams representing the survivors emphasized that the settlements reflect both accountability and a commitment to the students’ futures. In addition to financial relief, the agreements are seen as acknowledgments of the life-altering consequences the attack inflicted on these young men.
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