Hollywood heavyweight Kevin Costner finds himself at the centre of a serious legal battle following a catastrophic on-set incident that left a young stunt performer with life-altering injuries.
Devyn LaBella, a professional stuntwoman, has filed a lawsuit against the Oscar-winning actor and his production company after suffering severe head trauma during filming. The incident occurred while working on Costner's latest project, leaving LaBella with what court documents describe as permanent physical and neurological damage.
The Incident That Changed Everything
According to legal filings, the accident took place during what should have been a routine stunt sequence. LaBella, who was performing a specialised manoeuvre, sustained direct impact to her head, resulting in immediate medical emergency on set.
The injuries were so severe that she required immediate hospitalisation and has since undergone extensive medical treatment. Medical experts suggest she may face lifelong consequences from the trauma.
Allegations of Safety Failures
The lawsuit alleges multiple safety failures that contributed to the devastating incident. Court documents point to:
- Inadequate safety protocols and equipment
- Failure to properly assess risks associated with the stunt
- Insufficient training and preparation for the specific manoeuvre
- Lack of proper medical personnel on standby
LaBella's legal team argues that these oversights created an unreasonably dangerous environment that directly led to their client's injuries.
Career in Jeopardy
Perhaps most heartbreakingly, the 28-year-old stunt performer now faces the potential end of her career. The physical limitations resulting from her head injury may prevent her from returning to the physically demanding world of stunt work.
"This isn't just about physical recovery," a source close to the case revealed. "Devyn has dedicated her life to this profession, and now she's facing the reality that she may never be able to perform again."
Costner's Production Company Responds
While representatives for Kevin Costner and his production company have declined to comment specifically on the ongoing litigation, sources indicate they take on-set safety extremely seriously.
The film industry has increasingly come under scrutiny for stunt safety following several high-profile accidents in recent years. This case is likely to intensify calls for stricter regulations and oversight in stunt coordination.
As the legal proceedings move forward, the entertainment industry watches closely, aware that the outcome could have significant implications for safety standards across Hollywood productions.
