Tragic Crash at Michigan Test Track Sparks Lawsuits and Demands for Justice

Two children were severely injured in a race car crash at a Michigan test track, leading their families to file multiple lawsuits against the parties involved. The horrific incident has sparked outrage and a call for accountability, as the families seek justice for their children's injuries.

Families Seek Answers and Accountability in the Wake of Devastating Crash

Lawsuits Filed Against Multiple Parties

The families of the injured children have taken legal action, filing lawsuits against several entities. These include Continental Automotive Systems Inc., the owner of the test track; Ford Motor Company, the owner of the race car; the Detroit Area Pre-College Engineering Program, which hosted the summer program; and the driver of the car, Linus Gugino.The lawsuits allege that the driver intentionally lost control of the vehicle to make the demonstration more exciting, despite the presence of young children nearby. The parties involved have stated that they cannot comment on the pending litigation.

Traumatic Injuries and Uncertain Futures

The crash occurred on July 17, 2023, during a field trip to the Auburn Hills test track. Cellphone video footage shows the moment the car slammed into the guardrail and struck the children, seriously injuring an 8-year-old and a 10-year-old.Elijah Gibson, a second-grader, suffered a traumatic brain injury, as well as fractures to his skull and legs. He has had to undergo multiple surgeries to address his injuries. Lavell McGee, a 10-year-old, also sustained severe head injuries in the crash.The families have expressed their devastation and concern for their children's futures. "It was absolutely hands down, the worst moment of my life," said Vincent Gibson, Elijah's father. He had brought his son to the test track as part of a STEM summer camp, hoping to show him the possibilities of his future. Instead, their futures were nearly taken from them.

Preventable Tragedy and Lack of Safety Measures

The attorney representing both families, Jonathan Marko, has stated that the crash was a tragic and entirely preventable incident. He alleges that the driver was not qualified to operate the high-speed, prototype race car, and that the children should never have been allowed that close to the track.Marko further claims that the driver was instructed to intentionally lose control of the vehicle to make the demonstration more exciting, despite the obvious risks. He argues that even at NASCAR events or the Grand Prix in downtown Detroit, there are strict safety measures in place to keep spectators at a safe distance from the track.The families and their legal team are demanding justice and accountability for the negligence that led to their children's injuries. They hope that their lawsuits will not only provide the necessary support for their children's recovery but also ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.