Court Opinion

ID: 9771723
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-29 16:52:02.963359+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T07:31:35.770376
License: Public Domain

HUTSON-DUNN, Justice,
dissenting.
I respectfully dissent because, based on the summary judgment evidence presented *387in this ease, I feel that there is a question of fact as to duty as well as causation.
Affidavits demonstrate that alcohol was served by the appellees, and drinking encouraged by giving a free drink, beer or wine, with each ticket. Alcohol was consumed by the players and spectators. On the day of the fight, members of the team, Ten White Guys and a Mexican, were drinking, using profanity, and already appeared intoxicated before the game. There were no rules, security or anyone available to control or supervise tense situations; situations that one could foresee as probably becoming exacerbated by the unsupervised and uncontrolled drinking by the teams as well as the spectators. Referees were told not to interfere in fights. The team that was involved in this fight was known for its aggressiveness. It had a reputation for intimidation and confrontations with other teams. Other fights and scuffles had occurred involving this team.
The injuries this man sustained were extreme and serious. With no one to assist him he could do nothing except assume a fetal position while an entire team beat and kicked him. He was rendered in an unconscious state, attempted to get up and was knocked down again. He was kicked in the head and midsection, lost his kidney, his intestine was torn, he sustained a bruised liver, had internal bleeding, injuries to and around the eyes, and lacerations to the head.
I agree that scuffles occur in games of this type, but with introduction and promotion of the additional element of alcohol by Spring Sports there is a question of fact as to whether of not his injuries would have been as serious if there had been someone to intercede in his behalf or if there had been no alcohol or drinking encouraged by Spring Sports. There is a question of fact as to whether Spring Sports’ was a substantial factor in bringing about the serious and extensive injuries that the appellant sustained.
I would reverse the judgment of the trial court and remand this case for further proceedings.