Phil Matier: Rowdy Fan Behavior Still Exists Despite Bryan Stow Case
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) – San Francisco Giants fan Bryan Stow, who was assaulted by two Dodgers fans outside Dodger Stadium following opening day in 2011, was awarded nearly $18 million in a negligence lawsuit against the team and former owner Frank McCourt on Wednesday.
Stow, a former paramedic from Santa Cruz, suffered brain damage and will require round-the-clock care for the rest of his life. The jury found the Dodgers 25 percent responsible and the two men who assaulted him, and are now in prison, 75 percent responsible.
Lawyers representing Stow and his family claimed the Dodgers and McCourt failed to provide adequate security at the stadium and since the attack, the issue of stadium security has become a hot-button topic in the sports world.
A prime example took place later in 2011, as violence in the stands and parking lot marred a preseason game at Candlestick Park between the San Francisco 49ers and Oakland Raiders. The two teams have not played an exhibition game since.
But overall, the Bay Area's sports franchises have notched up security over the past few years – whether it be bomb-sniffing dogs, metal detectors at ticket gates, added security in the stadium, or even plain clothes officers patrolling the facilities.
But as is often the case, no matter how much security is added, "fans will be fans" and combining sports, alcohol, and the "fever pitch" of fandom can prove to be a dangerous mix.
You can hear Phil Matier's comments Monday through Friday at 7:50am and 5:50pm on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM.