New York City officials agreed to settle a wrongful death lawsuit for $2.5 million with family members of a mentally ill, homeless veteran who died earlier this year in an overheated jail cell on Rikers Island.

On Feb. 15, 56-year-old Jerome Murdough was found dead in a 101-degree jail cell with a 103 degree body temperature, reports the Associated Press.  Officials said that the former U.S. Marine was on anti-psychotic and anti-seizure medication, which may have contributed to why he died in the overheated cell. Although the cell had a small vent to let in cool air, Murdough reportedly did not open it. As a result, experts reported that said Murdough "basically baked to death," My Fox News reports.

Murdough was initially arrested on Feb. 7 on trespassing charges for sleeping in a public housing building in Harlem. He was then sent to Rikers because he could not afford to post a $2,500 bail.

After learning about her son's death almost a month later, Alma Murdough filed a $25 million lawsuit against the city. However, instead of proceeding with a trial, the City decided to reach a settlement.

"A mother lost a son, the city lost a citizen," said Comptroller Scott Stringer said on Friday, according to Time. "It is my hope that this settlement provides some small measure of closure for the family of Mr. Murdough. The expedited resolution of this case is in the best interest of all parties."

"On behalf of the city, I am sorry for your loss," he told Alma Murdough.

"This is a very awful thing I'm going through," said the visibly distraught mother. "I'm sorry I cannot say any more."

According to the family's attorney, Derek Sells, the settlement was a sign that the city administration is willing to work with people who have been mistreated by city agencies or officials.