Travis Scott, Drake, Live Nation Entertainment Inc., and Harris County Sports and Convention Corporation are being sued for their involvement with November 5’s Astroworld Festival. Crowds surged toward the stage as Scott began his set at about 9:30 p.m., resulting in eight deaths and numerous injuries. Concertgoer Kristian Paredes filed the lawsuit Sunday, Vulture can confirm. Paredes is seeking $1 million in damages, and a trial by jury. “There is every indication that the performers, organizers, and venue were not only aware of the hectic crowd but also that injuries and potential deaths may have occurred,†Paredes’s attorney, Thomas J. Henry, said. “Still, they decided to put profits over their attendees and allowed the deadly show to go on.â€
Paredes says he was at the front of the general-admission section, separated from VIP by a metal barrier. He says he felt an “immediate push†as the countdown clock to Scott’s performance ended. He claims to have suffered severe bodily injuries, some of them permanent. The lawsuit claims that many “begged security guards†hired by Live Nation for help, but were ignored. In addition to Paredes, at least 12 other firms have filed lawsuits alleging the tragedy could have been prevented with safety measures.
Update November 10: According to Deadline, attorney Thomas J. Henry has amended the original suit to “about 110 people,†and expects to represent as many as 200 by the end of the week.
This breaking news post has been updated throughout. Additional reporting by Victoria Bekiempis.