The Dodger organization is being blamed for negligence for not beefing up security for such a contentious game between long-time rivals. The 31-page lawsuit claims the lack of security and inadequate lighting created an ideal conditions for crime.
"You've got gangs coming in on the one hand and you're getting rid of security on the other and you're supposed to be a place for families to go and have a good time," Stow family attorney Thomas Girardi said.
After ABC7's story originally aired, Jerome M. Jackson, an attorney for the Los Angeles Dodgers, issued the following statement:
"Bryan Stow suffered a devastating injury at the hands of criminals who should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Since the incident, Mr. McCourt and the Dodgers have not wavered in their support of the Stow family, nor in their commitment to work with the Los Angeles Police Department to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice. But, to be clear, Mr. McCourt and the Dodgers will defend themselves against the allegations made by Mr. Girardi in the lawsuit that he filed this morning."
The Stow family is also seeking an unspecified amount in damages for emotional distress and the loss of a father's companionship to 12-year-old son Tyler and 8-year-old daughter Tabitha,
Stow, 42, remains in critical condition at San Francisco General Hospital.
Stow's sister Bonnie said the family would not be speaking about the lawsuit.
ABC7 legal analyst Dean Johnson says it is clear to him why the Stow family has targeted the Dodgers organization for damages.
"We know that the Dodger organization is potentially liable in this situation and secondly, this is about money and the Dodger organization is the proverbial deep pocket," Johnson said. "The individuals who are responsible for this crime undoubtedly will be named in the future when their names are known."
Johnson says the lawsuit could also have an impact on other public venues over how much security they provide.
"Certainly, if there is a big settlement or a big verdict in this case, professional baseball, professional sports in general, commercial landlords in general are going to be much more aware of their obligation," Johnson said.
Because of the severity of Stow's injuries, the family could get millions of dollars in damages.
If the Stows prevail, they plan to reimburse everyone who has contributed to their family relief fund, except for former Giants slugger Barry Bonds, who has given college scholarships to both of Stow's children.
