Indiana Accident News

Stage collapse victim returns to school as legal fight continues

Brad Humphrey bravely made his way into Crispus Attucks High School in Indianapolis on Monday, October 24.
He was clad in a green hooded sweatshirt, dark-colored pants and white shoes, not unlike a typical 17-year-old. Only instead of making his way through the on foot, Brad was in a wheelchair.
On August 13, Brad was among the thousands gathered at the Indiana State Fairgrounds for a performance by the country duo Sugarland. When a stage rigging collapsed, Brad suffered spinal injuries that left him partially paralyzed.
In all, five spectators were killed during the Indiana State Fair stage collapse, along with a security guard and a stage hand. Dozens more were injured.
Event organizers have blamed the incident on high winds and say a severe "gust front" was something they never could have predicted. That hasn't prevented plaintiff's attorneys from filing 50 legal proceedings in local courts.
State officials say they have set aside $5 million to settle legal claims over the incident. According to Stephanie McFarland, a representative of the State Fair Commission, more than $900,000 has already been collected through the Indiana State Fair Remembrance Fund. Under a current proposal, families of the deceased victims will be able to collect $35,000 while those injured will be entitled to an unspecified but lesser amount.
Earlier this month, Sugarland announced it would hold a benefit concert at Conseco Fieldhouse on Friday, October 28. Special guests are expected to appear as more money will be collected for the remembrance fund. Tickets for the original show will be honored, along with additional tickets issued October 10-14, with a limit of four per household.
Brad Humphrey has not said whether he will attend. He was a member of the Tigers' tennis team, but his playing career is likely over.
It was clear from his first day in class that Brad will carry with him the events of August 13 for the rest of his life.

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