GWC Injury Lawyers Secures $13.4 Million Settlement for Victims of Fatal Prairie Fest Tent Collapse
GWC Injury Lawyers’ partners Louis C. Cairo and Michael D. Fisher, along with attorney Lawrence J. Amato, have successfully resolved all litigation related to the 2015 Prairie Fest tent collapse in Wood Dale, Illinois. The firm secured a total of $13,424,000.00 in combined settlements on behalf of its clients, including the families of Steven Nincic (35) and Lorraine Nocek (81, record-setting settlement in DuPage County), who tragically lost their lives in the incident.
A Day of Celebration Turns to Catastrophe
On August 2, 2015, what began as a joyful summer festival ended in devastation when the event’s largest structure—referred to as the “Mega Tent”—collapsed amid sudden high winds. The tent, which had been erected to shelter festivalgoers, came crashing down without warning, injuring dozens and fatally trapping GWC’s two clients.
What was initially perceived as a tragic act of nature was later revealed to be the result of serious negligence.
Uncovering the Truth: A Preventable Disaster
Through exhaustive investigation and years of litigation, GWC’s legal team exposed critical failures in the tent’s installation. The installer, CP OPCO—doing business as Classic Party Rentals—had failed to follow the manufacturer’s specifications for safe setup. Most notably, they neglected to use the required number of ground stakes necessary to secure the tent against wind loads. This omission directly compromised the structure’s stability.
“This tragedy was entirely preventable,” said GWC attorney Lawrence J. Amato. “Had the Mega Tent been anchored according to basic safety guidelines, it would have withstood the weather. The lives of Steven Nincic and Lorraine Nocek were lost because fundamental safety protocols were ignored. While no settlement can replace their loved ones, this resolution holds the responsible parties accountable.”
Lasting Impact and a Call for Safer Standards
The resolution of these cases brings long-overdue justice to the victims’ families, who have endured nearly a decade of grief and legal battles. More importantly, the case sends a powerful message to corporations: Safety standards are not optional—they are essential.
By shedding light on the negligence that led to this catastrophe, this case stands as a pivotal reminder of the responsibilities owed to the public at community events throughout Illinois and beyond.
About GWC Injury Lawyers
GWC Injury Lawyers is one of Illinois’ premier plaintiff’s trial law firms, with a long-standing reputation for championing the rights of victims of negligence, wrongful death, and workplace accidents. With over $2.5 billion recovered in verdicts and settlements, GWC attorneys are committed to holding corporations and contractors accountable and securing justice for the injured and their families.