Washington and Schools Settled Wrongful Death Lawsuit
The state and Evergreen Public Schools reached a $49 million agreement regarding the 2020 death of a 15-year-old student.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Special Education
Washington state and Evergreen Public Schools have finalized a $49 million settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit following the 2020 death of Karreon Adams-Franks. The agreement resolves litigation that accused state agencies and the school district of failing to address reports of abuse involving the 15-year-old student.
Why it matters
The settlement, which is being split between the state and the school district, was reached to avoid the financial risk of a potential jury verdict exceeding available insurance coverage. It addresses systemic allegations regarding the handling of abuse reports by public institutions.
The settlement includes a $25 million payment from the State of Washington and $24.3 million from Evergreen Public Schools. These funds will be distributed to the estate of Karreon Adams-Franks and his two surviving brothers.
The players
Evergreen Public Schools
A Vancouver-based school district that serves thousands of students and manages special education services.
Karreon Adams-Franks
A 15-year-old student who was autistic, nonverbal, and legally blind at the time of his death.
Felicia Adams
A caregiver who was convicted of homicide by abuse and sentenced to 35 years in prison.
Jesse Franks
A caregiver who was convicted of homicide by abuse and sentenced to 30 years in prison.
The details
The lawsuit alleged that state departments failed to act on reports of abuse involving Adams-Franks, who was autistic, nonverbal, and legally blind. District insurers moved to settle the case to mitigate the financial exposure of a jury trial. The victim, who was 15 at the time, weighed 61 pounds when he died of starvation in 2020.
Timeline
2020: Karreon Adams-Franks died of starvation.
2023: Felicia Adams and Jesse Franks were convicted.
October 13, 2026: Settlement agreement announced.
The Home Front
This settlement highlights a significant failure in the oversight protocols intended to protect students within the special education system. It underscores the critical importance of strictly enforced reporting requirements for school districts and state agencies under mandated abuse laws.
Parents of children in special education should review their school district’s specific procedures for reporting abuse and welfare concerns. If you suspect an issue, ensure you communicate directly with a school administrator or designated district official to confirm your report is documented.
The takeaway
This case serves as a somber reminder of the need for rigorous oversight of student wellbeing by both educators and state authorities. Families should maintain regular contact with their student's IEP team and stay informed about the specific safety protocols at their district schools.
Further reading
For additional guidance on school policies, see the Special Education section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Opb.
