The family of a Richland man shot and killed by a Kennewick officer in 2009 is suing the city, police department, chief and three officers in federal court.

Christopher Villarreal, 39, died Sept. 14, 2009.

Villarreal was reported as an erratic driver, was followed into downtown Kennewick by a motorcycle officer, then tried to back his car into the bike, police said. Officer Lee Cooper fired nine times, fatally wounding him.

Villarreal's family filed a $15 million claim against the city last year and their attorney, Norma Rodriguez, said at the time that a civil complaint would be filed. The civil suit was filed on the second anniversary of his death.

The suit alleges Villarreal's civil rights, and those of his family, were violated. The family is seeking damages in an amount to be determined at a trial.

Cooper, Chief Ken Hohenberg and traffic Sgt. Ken Lattin are named in the suit, along with the city and police department.

An investigation by the FBI found no evidence of a willful violation of Villarreal's civil rights, and an internal shooting review found Lee's actions were lawful and proper. After the investigations, Cooper returned to full duty about a year ago.