NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (AP) — Victims of a mass shooting at a Las Vegas country music festival said Monday they were outraged when they learned they were being sued by the company that owns the hotel where the gunman opened fire.
Jason McMillan, a 36-year-old Riverside County sheriff’s deputy who was shot and paralyzed, said he can’t believe MGM officials would try to foist blame onto anyone but themselves.
“I just can’t believe the audacity,” McMillan said at a press conference in Southern California where survivors, victims’ relatives and attorneys railed against the decision to file lawsuits against hundreds of victims.
“I’m not just a victim from the concert. I’m a survivor, and they’re not going to get away with anything. We’ll keep this going as long as it takes,” McMillan said.
MGM Resorts International sued victims in at least seven states last week in a bid to get federal courts to declare the company has no liability for the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.
In October, high-stakes gambler Stephen Paddock killed 58 people and injured hundreds at the festival by firing onto the crowd from his room at the Mandalay Bay casino-resort in Las Vegas. Paddock then killed himself.
MGM’s lawsuits — which target victims who have threatened to sue or who have sued the company and voluntarily dismissed their claims — argue that that the shooting qualifies as an act of terrorism and that federally certified security services were used at the concert venue, which is also owned by MGM.
After 9/11, the U.S. enacted a law giving companies a way to limit their liability if their federally certified products or services failed to prevent a terror attack.
The company’s decision to file the lawsuits stoked a public outcry. On Monday, MGM Resorts spokeswoman Debra DeShong said the company has faced dozens of lawsuits in multiple jurisdictions and resolving each case on its own would take years.
“We believe Congress determined these cases should be in federal court and that getting everyone in the same court is the best and fastest way to resolve these cases,” she said.
McMillan said he felt helpless at the concert when he fell to the ground and couldn’t feel his legs. His girlfriend helped drag his body over a fence and others helped load him onto the back of a pickup truck where he lay staring at the night sky, struggling to breathe, while the driver plowed over curbs and through bushes to rush him and other victims to the hospital.
When he woke, doctors told him he had a bullet in his spine. He was afraid his 4- and 7-year-old daughters would look at him differently in a wheelchair. He was afraid of what they might miss out on, he said, because of him.
It was insulting to learn he was being sued by MGM at the same time he was struggling to rebuild his life, McMillan said. And it brought him right back to feeling helpless again.
“It enrages me to think that this company can just try to skip out on their responsibilities and their liability for what happened,” he said.
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Associated Press writer Regina Garcia Cano in Las Vegas contributed to this report.
From Start To Finish, He Cared, He Loved, He Advocated, He Fought, He Was There as Lawyer, Friend and as Family I have known William Shapiro going on 16 years now and when tragedy hit my family when my daughter was catastrophically hit by a bus while walking, William Shapiro and Brian Shapiro where there as family first. They made sure that my wife, my daughter, and I knew that they were there as family and that they cared for us and our well being before any talk of lawyering and any words of a lawsuit arose. Little did I know that behind the scenes William and his team were doing the things that were necessary to protect my daughter's legal rights and doing all of the research needed and putting all of the "ducks" in a row to make sure that when I and my wife were ready to have that talk, as hard as it was, that we knew that they were on our side and ready to fight to the end. From the moment that I met with William by myself regarding my daughter's matter, and without my wife as she was tending to my daughter in the hospital, William assured me that he was going to go to the ends of this earth to make sure that my daughter was taken care of for the rest of her life and that we were in good hands. I always knew that we were in good hands because I had seen William's work before on other matters, but this being a personal matter, I was amazed at the level of care and brilliance at which William operated. He guided my wife and I step by step through this process, allowed us to cry when we couldn't hold it in any more, and always had us feel, which I already knew, that my daughter was of paramount importance. The great thing is that not only did he put his heart and soul in to this case, as he does with all of his case, but he delivered. As a result of the severe accident my daughter was left with permanent disabilities. As devastating as this is, Mr. Shapiro has made the remainder of my daughter's life as comfortable as it could possibly be. I know that that this result was because of William's experience, knowledge and tenacity. There is so much more that I would like to say about William but there is not enough space on this review to do so. All I can say is that if you are dealing with a catastrophic injury to yourself or someone in your family, you are doing you or your loved one and huge disservice by not hiring this firm. I am a lawyer also. And again, in the many years that I have known William and have always admired him and secretly took bits and pieces of what he would say in passing and incorporate them into my own practice just to try to measure up to the excellence that he provides. After being a client of his and seeing how he works from start to finish, how much of a true "counselor" he is, how much of an advocate that he is, I have realized that it would take me two life times to measure up to him. I thank him eternally for what he did for my daughter. Truly and simply the best personal injury lawyer in the land. My wife, daughter and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Aaron
Bill Shaprio was my attorney for a personal injury case that resulted from a “big truck” accident from which I sustained permanent back injuries. The whole incident cause physical and emotional stress, not to mention the legal issues in CA while I live in NC. When my local attorneys found Bill Shaprio and I retained him, I gained an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who worked tirelessly on my behalf. He was persistent, honest and thorough, and even through some of the most difficult times, he always reminded me that he was on my side and working for my benefit. He did that, too! Prior to trial, he negotiated a settlement and went far beyond my expectations in what he accomplished. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without him. He was truly a God-send!
Matthew
Amazing Attorney!!!! Bill Shapiro is one of the most professional, knowledgeable caring attorneys that I have ever dealt with. His commitment was unbelievable. I was very impressed with his wealth of knowledge and his respect for the law.
Sharon
I George hired Law Offices of William D. Shapiro for a case for my daughter. Bill Shapiro himself with Co lawyers did a fanaminal job. I would recommend his services to anyone! Thanks Bill For Shapiro.
George
Awesome Attorney. Mr. Shapiro is a great attorney to have on your side. His passion to help his clients prevail and stand up for what is right is uplifting. Before I met with Attorney Shapiro, I felt defeated in my case. He instructed me to trust in him from day one and that is exactly what I did. His legal advice is always right on, he never danced around the point. Mr. Shapiro and his staff always effectively communicated with me and kept me well informed during the duration...
Nicole
Fantastic attorney! Fantastic attorney! Bill is one of the most professional, knowledgeable and yet caring attorneys that I have dealt with ever. He always made sure that I knew what was happening with my case either with a phone call or letter. When I was in his office he never rushed me out. He made sure all of the legal terms and the next steps in my case were understandable to me as a lay person. His confidence in my case that it will be resolved in my favor is very comforting.
Naomi
Excellent attorney. I am a court reporter of 22 years. I've had the pleasure of working with Mr. Shapiro for about 20 of those. Mr. Shapiro is very dedicated to his profession and his practice. From a court reporter's viewpoint during depositions, Mr. Shapiro leaves no stone unturned. I've always been impressed with his advocacy for his clients, his preparedness, and his attention to detail with every case. He is always very record conscious and appreciates a...
Vicki
OUTSTANDNG LAWYER! Bill is the lawyer you want sitting next to you in the courtroom! Not many lawyers get involved on an emotional level, but Bill Shapiro does. He is a true professional as well as a deeply caring person. A combination like this is truly hard to find in any profession. Bill treats each and every client as though they are family. During the course of my case, I was especially impressed with the wealth of knowledge and respect Bill has for the law. I deeply feel that Bill's continued commitment to his clients, his staff and his profession; is what has made him such an outstanding lawyer today. Bill reaches beyond what is possible and makes it happen! Without a doubt, I would recommend him all day long. Thank you Bill for all you do!
Brenda
The Attorney's Attorney. Some cases require the experience and expertise of a professional like Mr. Shapiro. When those cases arise in my own practice, I don't hesitate to refer them to Bill. He is passionate and unrelenting. I recently referred a close family member to Bill. His dedication was inspiring. He leaves no stone unturned; prepares a case thoroughly; and is just a superb trial attorney. Above all though, Bill is a man of absolute integrity.
Mark
Highly recommended. Mr. Shapiro represented me in a Loss of Spouse case. He and his staff were professional and caring during the representation. Mr. Shapiro informed me of the process throughout the completion of the case. I received compensation and again he and his staff always were professional. I chose the right attorney and would recommend him to anyone that needs his services. He interviews his potential client diligently for both clients benefit to be sure he can do his job effectively.
Darlene
BILL IS A LAWYER'S LAWYER. I retained Bill Shapiro to serve as co-counsel on a wrongful death lawsuit arising from a motorcycle accident. I spent about a year and a half litigating the matter myself and watched Safeco try to lowball my clients for the loss of their beloved son. Within two months after retaining Bill as co-counsel, Safeco quickly and wisely offered the policy limits. Bill is a lawyer's lawyer. I highly recommend him as counsel or co-counsel on all catastrophic injury cases.
Danny
Experience and Trust Worthy. Thank you for delivering my family the favorable court judgment beyond our expectation despite the many challenges/complexities in the case. We appreciate the 3 years and tireless effort you and your professional legal team have put into prosecuting the wrongful death case. You helped us navigate through the complex legal process at a time the most difficult period in our life. I cannot say enough how happy and confident we felt to have...
An
Prompt. Mr. Shapiro got back to me very quickly in regards to my inquiry. Sadly, he was preparing for a big trial & could not take me on at this time & referred me over to one of his colleagues.
Carie
Great attorney. William is probably the best attorney I seen in a long time, he care !!! And returns calls
Cathy
Excellent Lawyer. Bill Shapiro represented us on our case for five years. From the moment we met Bill in our home, we felt that we truly had someone who would tenaciously and passionately commit his time, energy, knowledge, and skill to obtaining justice for our family. We not only got that from Bill but much more. He always showed that he valued us as individuals. He was caring, supportive, and continually made time for our calls and emails. He and his staff...
Tracy
Tough. Thorough. And compassionate. Mr. Shapiro was the driving force of our team of lawyers representing us in a wrongful death case. Once he joined our case, he took charge and moved the process along. I would highly recommend Bill to represent my friends and family in the future if needed. Even though our case involved multiple siblings, he and the office always answered each one of us. He kept us in the loop, he informed us on expectations and possibilities in a kind way.
Cheryl
The man cares about his clients!! The level of professionalism from this man is extremely impressive. Bill has handled a few cases for myself over the last 20+ years and most recently handled a traffic accident settlement case for me. Every time I have had interactions with Bill or his staff I have always believed, and continue to believe, that my case was their first priority. I have the utmost respect for Bill and his practice. I would definitely recommend Bill as an attorney...
Gary
Excellent Attorney! Mr. Shapiro handled a personal injury case involving our two year old daughter. He negotiated a fair settlement that included compensation for medical bills and will also provide for her future. We are very apprecaitive of Mr. Shapiro's professionalism and caring which helped us through a very stressful period in our lives. I very much recommend Mr. Shapiro!
Wayne
Shapiro Takes on Bully Attorney. I have had my own CPA practice for 30 years. As my part of my profession, I have assisted my clients in civil, family and probate cases. During this process, I have met with dozens of attorneys both in and outside of court. On occasion, I have also been court-appointed as an accounting expert. Therefore, my review is based upon comparatives, as well as from my own personal experience in hiring Mr. William (Bill) Shapiro to represent me in my own case.
Vivian
Best attorney! My name is Marian, I am a court reporter who owns a court reporting agency. My agency and I have been associated professionally with Mr. Shapiro and his law firm for over 35 years. I've personally consulted him countless times over those years for legal advice.
Marian
Oh My Gosh! We had never had a need for a lawyer, so we were both anxious and skeptical to find one after my husband was injured in a bicycling accident. We researched a few, and then accepted an invitation to sit down with Mr. Shapiro and his son Brian
Judi
Mr. Shapiro was precise, patient, methodical and beyond knowledgeable regarding this incident. We highly appreciated his assistance and handling of this case. Recommend his representation from him and his office.
Anonymous
Alechman - vs - City of Redlands California. On September 3rd, 2011, my wife was killed due to injuries suffered in a roll over accident after her car struck a concrete structure on the shoulder of the road. I contacted the office of William Shapiro who reviewed the case and then decided that it had enough merit to take on
Sheldon
BIll did an amazing job, truly. Bill got things done, didnt let my case get bogged down into legal limbo. Things got done and done quickly. I am very happy with how he managed my case. I cant recommend him enough.
James
The quality of services I received from William Shapiro was remarkable. He is a caring passionate dedicated, knowledgeable and excellent attorney to have represent myself and my family for over 25 years. He is someone that I trust and highly recommend.
Cathy
Call Bill, he will fight for you!!! I will always recommend Bill. He is the best. From the moment I met him he became a good friend. He represented my son as if he were his own. He truly cares about his clients and will do what ever he needs to get their case settled the way it should be. His staff is amazing. They make you feel right at home. Bill Shapiro is my forever go to guy when I need the best to represent me or even just to get advise. In my book, he's not just the best attorney, he's a friend that will fight for you till the end. In the end he won't be considered just a friend, he will become family. Thanks for everything Bill. Blessings always to you and yours always.
Lizzy
Great Lawyer! Bill Shapiro handled my case like it was the biggest case in the world. The greatest part of all of this was it was a very small case for Mr. Shapiro. We won the case and Mr. Shapiro was in the courtroom every day fighting for me. Bill Shapiro is one of the best Lawyers I have ever worked with. Thank you Bill!
Diad
Truly dedicated lawyer. I hired Mr. Bill Shapiro to represent my severe TBI son. From the very beginning Mr. Shapiro along with his son Brian tackled my sons case full force. Mr. Shapiro’s love and respect for the law is commendable. He is passionate and I truly appreciated his up front honesty. He successfully represented my son, I and my family will forever be grateful.
Jennifer
Mr. Shapiro has been nothing but helpful with my case. He's been very nice and he's kept in contact throughout to his best abilities. He's answered any questions that I have clearly, I highly recommend him.
Harley
Luck is not what you need when choosing a lawyer to represent your case. Thank god I was referred to use Mr. Shapiro. Luck is not what you need when choosing a lawyer to represent your case. Thank god I was referred to use Mr. Shapiro. I was slapped with a dubious claim against my company about 9 months ago. I originally hired a local attorney but soon realized that I was headed into trouble if I continued using that firm for my case that turned quite complicated. I was referred by some business colleagues to Bill Shapiro and his firm. I meet with Bill and...
Michael
Highly Respected! I never needed an attorney before. My daughter was injured when she was 2 years old by a person that lost control of their golf cart they ran her over on a sidewalk. Yes!!! I was right by her! I had know idea that people would be so dishonest just to save a few dollars by not taking responsibility for their actions. I was devastated! They even refused to pay for the ER up front cost. They did not want to report it to their insurance company at all. I called several attorneys prior to finding Mr Shapiro. The other law firms wanted me to sign a contract via email stating I can not speak with another attorney. This is prior to even comining in and talking to them about the incident. I was so upset already with my daughter injured having to deal with hospitals etc. I felt the world was caving in on me. I was recomended to talk with Mr Shapiro through a friend that works with the courts in my area. She had known how upfront and professional he was in all his cases and how he is highly respected in the courts. I am so thankful to this day having him represent my daughter. We did not even have to go to court. And I truly feel my daughter was represented well. Mr Shapiro still keeps in contact with us asking about our daughter. He will always be a part of my daughters life. And I love that about him and his entire law firm. They are literally there for you and not for the money. You will clearly feel that as soon as you meet him. I highly recommend him when you need a personal injury attorney. He is straight up honest and highly respected and will represent you well.
Paula
Compassionate and caring Compassionate and caring. I was referred to Bill Shapiro through another law firm. Mr Shapiro was willing to take on the tragedy that was visited on my family. He handled the case with purposefulness and a determination to do the best he could for my family even when it became obvious that there was no monetary value to this tragic situation. Bill continued to pursue ways to bring this to closure and in the end helped us to a solution that is agreeable to all. I highly recommend Mr. Shapiro for his professionalism and his compassion.
Raymond
Mr. Shapiro was professional, courteous, and very knowledgeable about the law. He was kind and compassionate towards me, but a PITBULL in mediation! If you're looking for a no B.S. attorney, Bill Shapiro's your guy!
Carol
Bill Shapiro has always gone beyond the call of duty and has always been there for me. He and his staff are courteous and knowledgeable and they have always gotten back to me via phone call or e mail in timely and caring manner. Bill Shapiro is one of a kind!! I highly recommend him for all your legal matters. Thank you Bill! You Rock!
Bill
I was just a kid 13 or 14 riding a moped in San Bernardino ca I was ditching school that day while riding past my school Riding near the curb A milk truck making a delivery to the school that day passed me and turned right in front of me into a driveway and ran me over fractured my ankle Bill got my medical covered and we won a substantial award that I got when I turned 18 that was the first time my mom called Bill The second time my mom had to call...
Guy
Very Happy with Bill and his office. Good customer Service, always quick to answer any questions I had, unlike some other lawyers. Understood my situation and offered great advice. I would highly recommend Bill to anyone. A+
Nick
Pre-eminent. Bill Shapiro is a stand out personal injury trial lawyer who recently handled a products liability case for us, together with his son, Brian. They are an outstanding team of professionals, who obtained a fantastic result for us. The process was seamless from beginning to end. The team are not only professional and excellent litigators, they are also compassionate and kind.
Anonymous
#1 Attorney. Dealt with several attorney’s before finding bill and I will say bill is the best, truthful, honest, and straight to the point. He gives you a realistic view of your case and doesn’t just take any case. He gets things done and handled for you, no if and’s or But’s. I would never hire any other attorney.
Anonymous
Mr. Shapiro was a killer lawyer. His professionalism surpased all my expectations and consistently put me at ease at each level of my case.
Stephanie
Honest, personable and dedicated attorney. In 2009 I lost my leg in a motorcycle accident. A friend of the family highly recommended Bill to review my case. From the first day I met Bill he was professional, understanding, and truly genuine. He wanted to do everything he could to help me with my personal injury claim. Over the course of 7 years there was not a day that I could not reach out to Bill and have him respond to my needs or concerns promptly. He stuck by me through a long...
Anonymous
Our family's hero! When our daughter was nearly fatally injured in a motor vehicle accident at the age of 2, we needed someone fully capable and trustworthy to handle her case. Mr. Shapiro was that person for us. He professionally handled business while I was able to care for our daughter. He really cares for his clients and goes above and beyond to ensure a smooth experience. 15 years later, he still looks after us and we consider him family. If you are looking for a great person to represent you, this is your guy. He made sure my daughter was taken care of for the rest of her life. I would not trust anyone else but him for legal advice in the future! We love you Bill!
Jacquelynn
Bill Shapiro #1 attorney extremely honest and straight forward. Bill Shapiro is the best at what he does and gets results. If you need an attorney that will fight for you, look no further call Bill Shapiro today.
Mike
Choosing the right attorney makes all the difference and Bill is the RIGHT one! I've worked in the legal field for almost 40 years. I've learned that even the best case can be lost. It's extremely important to find the right attorney and Bill is it. He's experienced, compassionate, energetic and driven to secure justice. He's exactly the attorney you want fighting for you, not against you. When an auto accident put me down for three months, I was too ill to function. I sought Bill's advice. He took the case and did all the work...
Deborah