Vanessa Bryant files wrongful death lawsuit against helicopter operator

Attorneys for Vanessa Bryant filed a wrongful death lawsuit Monday against the company that operated the helicopter that crashed while carrying her husband, Kobe, daughter Gianna and seven others.

The lawsuit was filed as mourners of the Lakers star gathered at a memorial service at the Staples Center, the Los Angeles Times reported.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, claims Island Express Helicopters and Island Express Holding Corp. was negligent.

Pilot Ara Zobayan, who also died in the crash, failed “to use ordinary care in piloting the subject aircraft,” the lawsuit claims.

The suit seeks general, economic and punitive damages.

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