CHICAGO (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — Lawyers for a manager of the E2 nightclub portrayed a promoter as responsible for security and crowd level on the night of a stampede that killed 21 people, while questioning a DJ and security guard for the club.
Lawyers for manager Calvin Hollins Jr. sought to establish that promoter Marco Flores was in charge at the venue that night, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Hollins Jr. and Flores, along with Hollins’ son Calvin Hollins III, face involuntary manslaughter charges for the deadly stairwell stampede on February 17, 2003.
While questioning DJ Vaughn Woods, defense lawyers claimed that Flores’ promotional activities, such as posting flyers and purchasing ad space on local radio stations – eventually filling the club beyond capacity.
A dance floor brawl led a security guard to discharge pepper spray, setting off the stampede. Bouncer Rafael Pellot, who claimed he had an afterlife experience and spoke with God after falling during the incident, denied telling police that Flores was his boss, and said he reported to Hollins Jr., prompting defense lawyer Tom Breen to ask,” This Lord who talks to you, has he ever advised you that perjury is a sin?”
A verdict in the trial is expected within a matter of weeks. –by CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
