Houston, Texas – A Houston grand jury has decided not to indict rap star Travis Scott and five others on criminal charges related to the deaths of 10 people at the 2021 Astroworld Festival in Houston. This decision arrived nearly 20 months after the music festival at NRG Park that injured hundreds and left concertgoers in a state of chaos.
The grand jury’s decision to “no bill” the six individuals on all counts was met with scrutiny as concerns about sufficient event staff, security breaches, and communication lapses slowly emerged in the aftermath of the catastrophe. The event drew attention to the need for enhanced security measures at large-scale concerts, prompting Governor Greg Abbott to create a task force to make recommendations for improving safety at similar events.
Despite the grand jury’s decision, Travis Scott still faces numerous lawsuits from hundreds of people who attended the festival and were injured. A lawyer representing some of the victims has expressed disappointment in the outcome but remains committed to seeking accountability for the victims.
According to Houston police investigators, all 10 deaths occurred in a specific area near the main stage where Travis Scott performed. The cause of death for the individuals was ruled as compression asphyxia, with the manner of death being ruled as accidents by the Harris County medical examiner.
Houston police Chief Troy Finner has also stated that the department plans to release an over 1,000-page criminal offense report produced by investigators in an effort to be transparent. Despite the complex nature of the incident, the public and the families of the victims are expected to gain insight into the challenges that were faced that night from the report.
Overall, the grand jury’s decision not to indict Travis Scott and others on criminal charges related to the Astroworld Festival tragedy has left many questioning the events that led to the deaths of 10 concertgoers and the measures that can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.