A dramatic incident at Levi's Stadium has led to a lawsuit that could have significant implications for stadium management and security protocols. On September 5, 2024, Donell Miller filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, against Lorenzo Angeles, DeBartolo Corporation, Forty Niners Stadium Management Company, LLC, City of Santa Clara, Jeffrey Duerson dba Jeff Duerson Staffing, LLC, and other unnamed defendants.
According to the court documents, on October 8, 2023, Miller was waiting in line to enter a 49ers game when he observed Lorenzo Angeles intoxicated and harassing other patrons. Despite being engaged by stadium personnel who were employees or contractors of the defendants named in the lawsuit, Angeles was not detained or removed from the premises. Moments later, Miller was struck on the head with a large glass bottle thrown by Angeles. The incident was captured on video and has led to felony charges against Angeles by the Santa Clara District Attorney.
Miller alleges that the defendants failed in their duty to protect patrons attending the game. He claims that it was foreseeable that failing to contain an intoxicated and agitated individual like Angeles would result in harm. The complaint states: "Defendants had a duty to protect patrons attending the 49er game and breached that duty by failing to prevent Defendant Lorenzo Angeles from throwing a glass bottle." As a result of this negligence, Miller suffered significant physical and emotional injuries including headaches, dizziness, memory loss, balance issues, light sensitivity, anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, and nightmares.
The plaintiff is seeking general damages according to proof for his injuries as well as special damages for past and future medical expenses and rehabilitation costs. Additionally, he is requesting interest at the maximum allowable rate from the present date until judgment is entered and any other relief deemed just and proper by the court.
Representing Miller are attorneys Michael Train Caldwell (SBN 156325) and John A. Holman (SBN 176947) from Caldwell Law Firm based in San Rafael. The case has been assigned Case No.: 24CV446698 and will be presided over by Judge L. Ayala.