Los Angeles — The University of Southern California (USC) is taking legal steps to extricate itself from a lawsuit brought against it by the mother of Drakeo the Ruler, following his fatal stabbing at a music festival on campus last year. The prominent rapper, whose real name was Darrell Caldwell, was killed during an altercation at the Once Upon a Time in LA festival, an event partly sponsored by the university.
USC filed a motion arguing that it should not be held responsible for Caldwell’s death, claiming it neither owned the concert venue nor was it responsible for security. The motion seeks to dismiss claims implicating the university for negligence and inadequate security measures that allegedly led to the rapper’s untimely demise.
The festival, touted as a major event with high-profile artists, occurred in December 2021. Witnesses said the attack on Caldwell happened backstage, casting a shadow over what was initially a vibrant gathering of music and culture. USC stated in its defense that the concert and security arrangements were managed by third-party contractors, specializing in event logistics and safety protocols.
The lawsuit, initiated by Caldwell’s mother, Darrylene Corniel, argues for unspecified damages, citing that the negligence of USC and other involved parties contributed directly to her son’s fatal stabbing. She claimed that the security lapses and failure to control the premises adequately led to her son’s death amidst a chaotic altercation backstage.
Legal experts comment that the complexity of the case arises from differentiating the responsibilities of the venue owner, the event organizers, and the individual security contractors. “It’s about dissecting who had control over the aspects of the event where the failure occurred,” said Trent Lewis, a Los Angeles-based attorney specializing in personal injury and public liability cases.
In her plea, Corniel emphasized not only the personal loss of a family member but also the professional vacuum left by Caldwell’s untimely death. Known for his unique flow and narrative style, Caldwell was seen as a pioneering figure in the West Coast rap scene. His music, which often delved into themes of systemic injustice and personal strife, resonated with a broad audience.
The precarious balance between providing security and ensuring the smooth execution of large-scale events has been a long-standing issue, highlighted by past incidents at other venues. The outcome of this lawsuit may press for stricter guidelines and oversight on how security is managed at large gatherings, particularly when multiple organizations are involved.
Supporters of Corniel have rallied on social media, questioning event security protocols and calling for justice for Caldwell. These developments reflect a growing concern over safety measures at high-profile events, with fans and family members often left questioning the adequacy of arrangements.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the spotlight on USC’s involvement draws attention to the broader issue of venue and organizer responsibility in ensuring the safety of performers and attendees alike. The resolution of the case could potentially influence how security measures are structured and implemented in future events across the country.