In a recent interview with KSAT 12 News, attorney Shawn Brown addressed a lawsuit that has captured the attention of the Kerrville community. The families of two individuals who lost their lives while spectating a drag race in Kerrville in October 2021 have taken legal action against the City of Kerrville, the Kerrville-Kerr County Joint Airport Board, and airport manager Mary Rohrer.
The victims, Santiago Martinez, an 8-year-old boy, and his aunt, Rebecca Cedillo, filed the lawsuit through attorney Shawn Brown, who represents their families. The heart-wrenching lawsuit alleges that the defendants made critical decisions regarding the placement of barricades, ultimately failing to extend them past the finish lines.
The lawsuit contends that the defendants neglected to take necessary and legally mandated actions to ensure the safety of the drag race attendees. Shawn Brown emphasized the defendants’ responsibilities, stating, “They were ultimately in charge of inspecting the grounds, ensuring that all agreed-upon safety measures were effectively implemented.”
Beyond seeking compensation in excess of $1 million, the families aim to convey a powerful message through this lawsuit. Brown underlined their intent: “We want people to understand that you can’t host a race like this without conducting thorough checks—security, every feasible precaution. Because it’s when you least expect it that things can go terribly wrong.”
The lawsuit signifies an earnest pursuit of justice and a commitment to preventing future tragedies of this nature. The families’ courage in seeking accountability serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility that event organizers and local authorities bear in safeguarding the lives of those in attendance.
