Kobe Bryant’s Widow Files Lawsuit Against Helicopter Company Over Crash

The Black Mamba, his daughter Gigi and seven others lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash outside Los Angeles. Kobe Bryant’s widow, Vanessa, decided to file a lawsuit against the helicopter company. Vanessa sues Island Express Helicopters for the crash that claimed the lives of her husband and daughter.

Vanessa filed the lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court on the day of the memorial at Staples Center. The lawsuit alleges several counts of negligence and wrongful death.

“This was a tragic accident. We will have no comment on the pending litigation,” the company didn’t want to comment the lawsuit any further. Teri Neville represents Island Express, and he had no comment either.

According to this lawsuit, Zobayan:

• “Failed to properly monitor and assess the weather prior to takeoff;”

• “Failed to abort the flight when he knew of the cloudy conditions;”

• And “failed to properly and safely operate the helicopter resulting in a crash.”

“Defendant Island Express Helicopters is vicariously liable for any and all actions of Ara George Zobayan, including his negligent and careless piloting and operation of the subject helicopter, by reason of its principal and agent relationship with Ara George Zobayan,” the lawsuit reads.

Vanessa seeks general, economic and punitive damages with her lawsuit. It didn’t contain any financial figures.

Kobe Bryant’s widow filed lawsuit against the helicopter company

The lawsuit suggests that the pilot flew the aircraft into conditions that generally require instrument flight rules (IFR).  Kobe’s helicopter wasn’t licensed for anything like that. Island Express was certified for flights using visual flight rules (VFR). VFR require pilots to stay clear of clouds while using visual and instrument navigation.

The pilot admitted his error, and “was willing to take any other necessary steps toward compliance.”

“Mr. Zobayan was counseled on operating in Class B airspace, special VFR weather minimums, proper planning, reviewing weather and anticipating required action. He was cooperative and receptive to the counseling,” the report adds.

“There are no indications that this is a repeated incident and there are no signs that this incident is a trend with Mr. Zobayan.”

It was a tragic crash, and Vanessa is convinced that someone has to bear the consequences.