Six-figure settlement expected after crash involving BPD patrol car

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Lawmakers in the City of Buffalo are poised to pass a six-figure payout to a local woman who was injured in a crash involving Buffalo Police four years ago.

Attorneys for the City of Buffalo have recommended that the city settle with Karley Mueller for $325,000 for injuries she suffered in the crash four years ago involving a Buffalo Police patrol vehicle being driven by officer Brandon Lowe.

Karley is the friend of Chelsea Ellis, who was significantly injured in the incident.

Last year, Buffalo Common Council approved a $43 million settlement for Ellis who was left paralyzed as a result of the crash. Ellis and Mueller were hit as they were walking on the sidewalk at Main Street and Benwood Avenue.

Officer Lowe was responding to a domestic violence call that turned out to be false. Before the collision, Lowe had been driving at speeds of up to 80 miles per hour and was driving on the other side of the road.

Both victims in the crash filed lawsuits against the City of Buffalo and Officer Lowe claiming he did not have his lights and siren on and that he violated department policy.

Last year, the Supreme Court of the Appellate Division, Fourth Judicial Department ruled that Lowe could be held liable for the crash. Mueller suffered injuries to her knee, back and neck as well as emotional trauma from witnessing the incident.

Charles Desmond, the attorney for Mueller, said they're happy to get the matter resolved and for her to move on with her life. The settlement still has to be officially approved by city lawmakers.