Jury Deliberates in Cowboys Stadium Ice Lawsuit

Jurors are deliberating in the lawsuit brought by a worker hurt by falling ice at Cowboys Stadium in 2011 following a three-week trial.

Severin Sampson is suing the Dallas Cowboys, the National Football League and three other entities for damages related to injuries he suffered while preparing for the Super Bowl XL halftime show.

An unprecedented ice storm coated the roof of then-Cowboys Stadium – now known as AT&T Stadium – in 2011. While preparations were underway for the football game, ice melted from the roof of the stadium, and chunks hit Sampson. Sampson said he suffered physically and mentally as a result.

During the trial, Sampson said he’s been unable to work. He added that his injuries still affect his balance, which cause nausea. Sampson testified that he cannot lift weights over 10 pounds, climb ladders or work at any height due to his injuries.

Sampson was also forced to admit that he signed a safety compliance agreement with his employer, Touchdown Entertainment, that included using only designated entrances and exits at the stadium while working and wearing proper safety equipment including a hard hat at all times.

Sampson admitted he was not wearing a hard hat when the falling ice hit him. He also testified that safety headgear was not provided for him by his employer.

Jury deliberations began Monday but ended with no decision. The jury went home for the night and will resume deliberations Tuesday morning.

Contact Us