Monterey Park Shooting Victims’ Families File Lawsuits Against Gunman’s Estate and Dance Studio
Relatives of the victims of a tragic shooting in Monterey Park have taken legal action by filing lawsuits against the gunman’s estate and the dance studio where the attack occurred. The lawsuits, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, claim wrongful death and seek justice for the lives lost in the senseless violence that shook the community.
Details of the Lawsuits
The lawsuits were brought forth by the families of Xiujuan Yu, Yu Lun Kao, LiLan Li, and Mymy Nhan, who tragically lost their lives when Huu Can Tran opened fire at the Star Ballroom Dance Studio on January 21, 2023. These legal actions allege wrongful death, assault, battery, liability, and negligence against Tran’s estate and the ballroom.
According to the lawsuits, the owners and managers of Star Ballroom failed to implement adequate security measures, such as security guards, video cameras, and proper lighting, to protect patrons from the criminal acts of Huu Can Tran. Furthermore, the legal documents claim that the owners were aware of previous criminal incidents in and around the dance studio but failed to warn customers of the potential dangers.
One of the survivors, Kevin Tang, who sustained injuries during the shooting, is also seeking justice by suing Tran’s estate for assault, battery, negligence, and liability. Tang suffered a left femur injury that required surgery and time off work to recover.
Impact on the Community
Star Ballroom was not just a place for dance and celebration but a beloved community hub for self-expression and cultural gatherings. The tragic events that transpired on that fateful day have left a lasting scar on the community, with owner Maria Liang expressing reluctance to reopen the dance studio due to the painful memories associated with the shooting.
The devastating loss felt by the victims’ families and the community at large prompted a visit from then-President Biden and then-Vice President Kamala Harris, who offered their condolences and support to those affected by the tragedy. Biden later returned to Monterey Park to announce executive actions aimed at addressing gun violence, highlighting the urgency of preventing such senseless acts of violence in the future.
As the legal proceedings unfold and the community continues to heal, the families of the victims are seeking closure and justice for their loved ones, while also advocating for safer spaces and stricter measures to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.