Christie Lites alleges that StageCo was negligent in the design and construction of the tower. A specialised lighting array and equipment owned by Christie Lites, elevated atop the tower was totally destroyed.
Christie Lites' CEO Huntly Christie commented that it was extremely fortunate that the collapse of the
tower occurred just days prior to the scheduled event, with only physical damage to the lighting array,
grandstands and general admission area. Had the tower collapsed during the event it might have caused severe injury and possible loss of life to spectators and field personnel.
"Christie Lites has an outstanding safety record in the industry. Prior to this incident it has never had to take legal action against a fellow industry vendor," the company says.
Christie Lites adds that Attempts to resolve this matter amicably have been frustrated, necessitating filing of the lawsuit. Christie Lites is seeking actual damages in excess of $500,000, and to ensure that this type of incident does not jeopardise public safety for future events, $1,000,000 in punitive damages.
Tom Bilsen, Stageco operations manager, told LSi today: "Stageco takes its responsibilities very seriously, we are fully insured, so all parties will be appropriately protected and reimbursed. Following this unfortunate incident we initiated our own investigation; there are multiple parties and multiple factors under consideration such as unpredicted wind gusts, and most importantly, there were no injuries. This law suit relates to the collapse of one of eight towers days before the event which took place as planned. We anticipate the judges will need time to resolve this complex matter."
(Lee Baldock)
