Teen Sues Delta for Negligence in Assault Case, Seeking Damages for Traumatic Experience

A 13-year-old girl is taking legal action against Delta Air Lines following a harrowing experience on a red-eye flight from Los Angeles to Orlando. The teenager, identified only as Z.B., was the victim of a sexual assault during the flight, and is now seeking damages for the negligence she alleges the airline displayed in handling the situation.

Incident details and legal actions

The assault took place on June 23, 2022, when the girl was traveling with her family to visit relatives. The lawsuit claims that the perpetrator, 53-year-old Brian Patrick Durning, was already visibly intoxicated when he boarded the flight, and was served additional alcohol during the overnight journey. The attack occurred after the lights were dimmed, with Durning touching the girl inappropriately and making threatening remarks to her.

The legal representatives of the teenage girl and her family assert that the flight attendants were made aware of the situation but failed to take appropriate action. They claim that despite being alerted to Durning's misconduct, the crew did not restrain him effectively, allowing him to continue his harassment not only of the victim but also of another female passenger who intervened and called for assistance. 

The family's legal team filed the lawsuit in federal court, and it was subsequently moved from state court due to the substantial damages being sought, which exceed $75,000. The lawsuit does not specify a precise monetary amount but seeks to hold Delta Air Lines accountable for the trauma and its ongoing consequences experienced by the girl, as well as the emotional impact on her family.

Repercussions and ongoing effects

The aftermath of the assault has left a lasting impact on the teenage girl and her family. The legal documents detail the ongoing emotional and psychological toll suffered by the victim, as well as the effects on her young brother and mother, who were also present on the flight. The distressing experience has resulted in nightmares, post-traumatic stress, depression, and panic attacks for the girl. Her academic performance and social behavior have also been profoundly affected, with noticeable changes in her grades, social interactions, and daily functioning. Similarly, her brother has experienced heightened anxiety, a fear of flying, and a reluctance to be in the presence of unfamiliar men.

Furthermore, the lawsuit emphasizes the long-term implications of the assault, including the significant number of missed school days and the resulting academic challenges. The legal representatives underscore the extensive impact on the girl's quality of life and well-being, citing the reluctance to engage in physical affection with family members and the adverse reactions to social and familial interactions. The family is seeking recompense for the emotional and psychological upheaval they continue to endure as a direct result of the traumatic incident. 

Delta Air Lines' response

Delta Air Lines has opted not to provide a detailed commentary on the pending lawsuit. The company's spokesperson released a brief statement affirming their staunch stance against unlawful behavior on flights and in airport facilities. While refraining from addressing the specific allegations, the airline reiterated its commitment to collaborating with law enforcement to uphold safety and security standards within its operations. 

The airline's response or lack thereof will likely be scrutinized in the course of the legal proceedings, as the plaintiff's legal team continues to advocate for accountability and redress. The forthcoming developments in the case will center on the allegations of negligence and misconduct on the part of the airline, as well as the enduring impact on the traumatized young victim and her family.