BIRMINGHAM, AL – June 16, 2010 - The family of William Owens has hired Attorney Byron Perkins with The Cochran Firm Birmingham to represent them after the tragic death of their son. Owens, a 17-year-old teen from East Lake, died early Sunday morning, June 13, 2010 following an altercation with Homewood police.

An investigation into the cause of death is underway, but authorities said the teen was struck twice with a Taser gun. However, witnesses have suggested that Owens was repeatedly tasered in the face and head which likely caused his death.

"This is a tragedy no parent should have to go through," said Perkins. "We will be looking into the circumstances of what took place that and the police conduct that caused Mr. Owens death."

After a report of teenagers breaking into cars, the Homewood police were called to the 200 block of West Valley Avenue. Owens was hit at least twice, and possibly multiple times with the Taser gun after authorities said the teen resisted arrest when officers tried to handcuff him.

Owens was taken to University of Alabama (UAB) Hospital by paramedics. At 1:46 a.m., less than two hours after being hit with the stun gun, Owens was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The officer who used the Taser gun on Owens has not been identified.

About The Cochran Firm

Founded over 30 years ago by famed attorney, Johnnie L. Cochran, Jr., The Cochran Firm , as it is known today, has established itself as one of the premier trial advocacy firms in the United States. With 27 offices in 16 states and the District of Columbia,The Cochran Firmis a diverse group of some of the most highly-experienced and respected men and women dedicated to bringing quality representation for injured people, their families and the ordinary citizen. Recognized nationally for their achievements in the courtroom, attorneys withThe Cochran Firmhave attained litigation results which have significantly impacted the law, communities, and industry practices.