The parents of Jordan McNair, the Maryland offensive lineman who in June died of complications related to heatstroke, have filed “notice of claim" forms which clear the way for a potential lawsuit.
The paperwork, submitted by Martin McNair and Tonya Wilson, alerts the state of their intent to sue and allows them to file a formal lawsuit within a year. The filing includes claims for each parent in excess of $10 million, as well as an additional claim of $10 million for Jordan’s estate and his pain and suffering prior to death.
ESPN reports that the filing specifically names suspended Maryland football coach DJ Durkin, suspended head athletic trainer Wes Robinson and former strength and conditioning coach Rick Court.
Hassan Murphy, a lawyer for Murphy, Falcon and Murphy, told ESPN a lawsuit is likely.
"We're still waiting for the results of the investigations, and we are still in the process of conducting our own investigation, which we have not yet concluded," Murphy said. "It's hard to say when we will be in a position to make a decision. We will endeavor to work as quickly as possible once we have all of the information we need. The chances of us not filing a case at this point given what we know are slim."
Martin McNair and Tonya Wilson’s notice alleges that University of Maryland officials and employees caused Jordan’s heatstroke by not recognizing the symptoms and not providing him necessary care at the May 29 workout.
University of Maryland president Wallace D. Loh said back in August that the school "accepts legal and moral responsibility for the mistakes" made by its athletic training staff relating to McNair’s death.
