Wal-Mart denies lawsuit claims in fatal police shooting of man who had air rifle in store

Wal-Mart is denying allegations of civil rights violations and negligence in the death of a black man who was shot by a white police officer while holding an air rifle inside one of its stores in Ohio.

John Crawford III was shot in August in Beavercreek. Police had responded after a 911 caller reported a man waving what appeared to be a firearm.

A grand jury concluded the shooting was justified. Crawford's family sued in federal court, seeking at least $75,000.

The city, its police chief and two officers named as defendants deny the family's claims and are asking a judge to dismiss the lawsuit.

Bentonville, Arkansas-based Wal-Mart Stores Inc. denies responsibility for Crawford's death in a Friday court filing.

Crawford's family has sought a federal investigation to see if race was a factor.