Grand Jury Declines to Indict Travis Scott in Astroworld Tragedy

A Houston grand jury declined to indict rapper Travis Scott for the deaths of 10 people at the 2021 Astroworld Festival.

On July 27, Scott and five others who were facing criminal charges were no billed—or wouldn’t face criminal charges for injuries and deaths after the crowd collapse at the Nov. 5, 2021 music festival. 

Scott, an artist known for encouraging destructive behavior and chaos, performed for about an hour as fans in the crown pleaded for help. 

The Harris County medical examiner ruled the cause of death for the individuals as compression asphyxia and the manner of death accidents.

“In this instance, the grand jury of the 228th district court of Harris County found that no crime did occur,” county District Attorney Kim Ogg told reporters Thursday. “That no single individual was criminally responsible.”

What was Uncovered in the Investigation?

Investigators from the Houston Police Department who led the 19-month investigation said all 10 deaths occurred in 8,200 square feet near the main stage where Scott performed. This was uncovered through a review of video footage and witness accounts. 

The deaths resulted from overpopulation of that 8,200 sq ft. area that slowly led to the constriction of the area with fans becoming trapped in the crowd. 

Their investigation determined that fans gathered near the stage hours before Scott’s headlining performance at his festival. 

Does this Decision have an Impact on Astroworld Civil Lawsuits?

No. Like another famous man connected to the Kardashian-Jenners, Scott may escape criminal charges but still be found liable in a civil court. 

The burden of proof in a civil case is much lower. As a result, victims of negligence may only see justice through a civil claim. 

Scott’s History of Encouraging Chaos

As noted above, Travis Scott has a reputation for encouraging chaos at his shows. He’s been convicted twice for encouraging fans to rush his stage. 

This behavior left a man paralyzed in 2017.

In 2015, Scott pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of reckless conduct after encouraging his fans to jump a security barricade at Lollapalooza in Chicago. 

Astroworld Legal Representation

We are avid proponents of having good, safe fun. Going to a concert or allowing your minor children to attend a concert should be a fun experience that results in fond memories to last a lifetime. No one should have to deal with hospital bills or funeral costs because of concert promoters’ failures in security and safety protocols. The 2021 Astroworld Festival tragedy was 100% preventable. You can hold the event organizers and others accountable by contacting an injury attorney at 800-359-5690 to file an Astroworld Lawsuit.