Do Sports Stadiums Have a Duty to Protect Fans from Violence?

Any sports enthusiast will tell you that rivalry between different sets of fans can become extremely intense. During high-stakes games, fans often teeter on the edge of violence, watching every moment from the edge of their seats. If stadium security staff do not watch carefully, fights can erupt quickly and without warning. It is the duty of each security employee to step in and diffuse situations before they have the chance to cause serious injuries.

Unanswered Questions Over New Hampshire Man’s Death During Patriots Game 

On September 20th, it was reported that an investigation had been launched into the death of a New Hampshire man who lost his life while watching a Patriots game. The 53-year-old was apparently involved in some kind of violent altercation, although the official police report points instead to a “medical event.” Nevertheless, witnesses state that the man was punched in the head prior to his death. This punch seems to have been the cause of his death, as witnesses say he “crumbled” after receiving the strike and never got up again.

Footage from the incident also shows security staff rushing to the scene to break up the fight, followed by medical professionals. These individuals apparently administered first aid for 10 minutes, conducting compressions in an unsuccessful effort to resuscitate the man. It is not clear what will happen next, but no criminal charges have been issued as of this writing. The police are conducting an investigation into the incident, and it was reported that an autopsy would be conducted.

Violence and Injuries at Live Events Can Easily Lead to Lawsuits 

It’s not yet clear whether this incident will lead to a lawsuit against Gillette Stadium or any other entity responsible for the safety of the fans. However, such lawsuits are certainly within the realms of possibility. Over the past few years, we have seen many lawsuits filed due to so-called “crowd surges” at music festivals. One such example is the 2021 Astroworld Festival in Texas, which resulted in 10 deaths associated with tramplings and asphyxiation. On September 18th, it was reported that rapper Travis Scott was being questioned by authorities as a “wave” of personal injury lawsuits moved forward.

Where Can I Find a Qualified Injury Attorney in New Hampshire? 

If you believe that your injuries were caused in part by negligent security, you may have the opportunity to take legal action alongside qualified Manchester personal injury lawyers. Speak with the Law Office of Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira PLLC to learn more about how negligent security lawsuits work. This type of lawsuit may be justified under certain circumstances, and it can provide compensation for medical expenses, missed wages, emotional distress, and other damages. Perhaps most crucially, it can also provide closure for families who have lost loved ones to fatal fights on private property. Book your consultation today to learn more.

Sources: 

nbcboston.com/news/local/witnesses-describe-heartbreaking-brutal-scene-at-gillette-surrounding-fans-death/3139444/

caledonianrecord.com/news/national/rapper-travis-scott-is-questioned-over-deadly-crowd-surge-at-texas-festival-in-wave-of/article_38760168-395a-5fb0-8b3d-a62c4163e1af.html