Family Of 14-Year-Old Astroworld Victim Files $1 Million Lawsuit

The family of a 14-year-old victim who died at Travis Scott’s Astroworld festival is suing the rapper, among others. People obtained a copy of the complaint, filed Wednesday, which names Scott, Live Nation Worldwide, and its subsidiaries.

The parents of high school freshman John Hilgert alleges “gross negligence” and “reckless disregard” for Hilgert’s safety, resulting in his death. It specifically mentions the event’s inadequate security and crowd control measures.

The boy’s parents, Chris and Nichole Hilgert, are calling for change. They want to see changes in the way concerts are organized, the elimination of poorly designed general admission, and changes in security measures. 

In a statement, Chris Hilgert called their pain “intolerable.” “This pain should never be felt by anyone over a loved one attending a live concert,” he said. “Our sole aim in filing this lawsuit is to prevent this type of tragedy from ever happening again at a live concert.”

He added, “There is no excuse for the poor crowd design, event execution, and lack of response that was exercised at this festival that resulted in the tragic death of our son and nine others along with scores of other people that were innocently injured.” 

In addition to the changes requested, the suit is seeking $1 million in damages. 

This is just the latest in a barrage of lawsuits Scott and event organizers face after ten people died and several hundred were injured during a crowd surge at the event. Earlier this month, 125 victims filed a $750 million lawsuit. Last week, 282 victims filed a $2 billion lawsuit against Scott, Drake, Live Nation, Apple Music, and NRG Stadium. Two security guards have filed $1 million lawsuits claiming “greed” was put before safety.