Michigan State University trustees have unanimously approved settlements with the families of three students who tragically lost their lives during a mass shooting earlier this year on the university’s campus.
The board of trustees made the decision on Friday, finalizing separate agreements with the families of Brian Fraser, Arielle Anderson, and Alexandria Verner. Although specific settlement amounts were not disclosed by the university, an attorney representing Verner’s family informed the media that Michigan State University will pay $5 million to the Verner family.
Trustee David Kelly expressed the university’s condolences and emphasized the board’s commitment to ensuring that the memory of each lost child is honored within the Spartan community. Kelly acknowledged that while no compensation could ever fully replace the loss of a life, the settlements were intended to provide some closure, support, and relief to the grieving families.
The tragic incident occurred on February 13 when Arielle Anderson, Alexandria Verner, and Brian Fraser were fatally shot, and five other students were wounded during an attack by Anthony McRae at Berkey Hall and the MSU Union. Investigators found no connection between McRae and the victims or the university. McRae took his own life on the night of the shootings when confronted by the police. In April, investigators stated that they were unable to determine a conclusive motive for the campus shootings.
David Femminineo, the attorney for the Verner family, clarified that the Verner family did not hold MSU responsible for their daughter’s death but sought answers on preventing such incidents in the future.
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Trustee Kelly reassured the community that Michigan State University remains dedicated to enhancing campus safety and providing mental health support as the healing process continues.