Live Nation has settled wrongful death claims with the families of two women killed at the Beyond Wonderland music festival in Washington three years ago. According to court filings obtained by Rolling Stone, the estates of victims Brandy Escamilla and Josilyn Ruiz have "resolved and settled all claims" ahead of a trial scheduled to begin next month.
The settlement follows an incident in which an active-duty Army specialist allegedly opened fire at the festival while under the influence of hallucinogenic mushrooms. The alleged shooter, identified as James Kelly, was stationed at Joint Base Lewis–McChord and faces multiple counts of murder, attempted murder, domestic violence, and drug offenses under military law.
According to court documents, Kelly allegedly hid a bag of mushrooms in his underwear to avoid detection by concert security. After suffering a bad reaction to the drugs at his campsite, he retrieved a firearm from his truck and allegedly opened fire on Escamilla and Ruiz without warning.
Kelly then reportedly dragged his companion, Lily Luksich, through the campground while firing at security staff until they reached an adjacent field. He allegedly shot Luksich twice before police stopped him. Kelly later told authorities he believed "the world was ending" and needed to protect Luksich and reach their families.
Luksich, who attended the festival with Kelly, continues to pursue her own claims against Live Nation. She alleges festival security failed to properly search Kelly and his vehicle for weapons before allowing them into the campground.
The specific terms of the settlement with Escamilla and Ruiz's families remain undisclosed. Lawyers for all parties declined to comment on the deal.
