First wrongful death lawsuit following Indiana stage collapse

The tragic stage collapse just moments before the country band Sugarland was scheduled to perform at the Indianapolis State Fair left 6 people dead and dozens injured. Now the first wrongful death lawsuit has been filed by the family of a 42 year-old woman who died after a gust of wind sent the stage tumbling. This lawsuit will also test Indiana’s treatment of same-sex couples, since the woman’s wife is suing the state and three other companies that constructed the stage.

The deceased’s wife was also severely injured during the stage collapse and will suffer permanent injuries as a result. Together they have raised a 17 year-old daughter, who was not harmed at the State Fair. The family is suing the state of Indiana, Mid-America Sound Corp., Dave Lucas Entertainment Group, and Live Nation for $50 million. The state of Indiana does not recognize gay marriage and state law requires only spouses or next of kin to receive settlements of wrongful death cases.