Bryan Stow, the San Francisco Giants fan brutally attacked at Dodger Stadium on Opening Day 2011 (May 31st, 2011) may finally have some form of justice. A jury in his civil suit has found that he and his family should be awarded $18 million in damages.
Of that award it was found that his attackers Louie Sanchez and Marvin Norwood, were 75% responsible for the injuries he sustained. Since the two are currently serving prison sentences in connection with the attack, it is unlikely that Stow will ever see any of the $13.5 million awarded to him that is to be paid by them.
However, the jury also found that the Dodgers were 25% liable, as they were negligent in not having enough security and lighting in the stadium parking lot. This means that Stow, will receive some $4.5 million from the team. However the jury did not impose punitive damages on the team, finding that the Dodgers actions were not egregious or outrageous in failing to provide that security.
Frank McCourt, the Dodgers owner at the time, was not found personally liable, consistent with American corporate law that sees the owners of a corporation protected from personal liability in these cases.
Stow was in a coma after the attack, and has suffered brain damage, and permanent disability as a result of the attack.
Medical experts who testified on Stow’s behalf had estimated that he will need some $50 million in medical attention over the course of his lifetime as a result of the attack and the injuries sustained. Stow was officially seeking $36 million in damages.
“Oh my God, I’m beyond happy,” said Stow’s mother Ann upon hearing the verdict.
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