A settlement has been reached in the wrongful death case of former NFL quarterback Dwayne Haskins, according to the attorney representing his widow, Kalabrya Haskins. The dismissal filed recently indicates the lawsuit, initially launched after Haskins' tragic passing, has now been officially closed.
This comprehensive settlement was finalized in August 2023, addressing claims against multiple defendants including the dump truck driver involved in the incident, as well as truck owner Pedro Senecio Diaz and the truck broker, Sorrel Enterprises, Inc. Attorney Rick Ellsley confirmed the resolution, stating, "All of the settlements obtained have now been paid and so the wrongful death case has now been closed." This declaration brings to closure the legal ramifications surrounding Haskins' untimely death.
Dwayne Haskins, who tragically lost his life on April 9, 2022, was only 24 years old at the time. He met his demise after being struck by a dump truck on the I-595 highway, as he walked along the roadway. Florida Highway Patrol confirmed the details surrounding this fatal incident, which took place between I-95 North and South in Broward County, Florida. Haskins was sadly pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind a promising football career and numerous grieving fans.
The wrongful death lawsuit accused the driver of negligence and alleged larger conspiracies surrounding Haskins' final hours. Reportedly, the lawsuit claimed he was the target of a "blackmail and robbery conspiracy." Court documents indicated the lawsuit alleged Haskins had been drugged prior to the accident and implicated various establishments, including the Boca Raton Hotel Group and E11Even Miami, for negligence related to drug use and safety standards.
While the circumstances leading to Haskins' death were deeply troubling, the case itself raised broader issues about safety on the roads and the responsibilities of venue operators to their patrons. These allegations of negligence posed significant questions not only to those directly involved but also to the wider public about accountability within the hospitality and transportation industries.
Haskins was drafted 15th overall by the Washington Commanders (then known as the Washington Redskins) and spent two seasons with the team, featuring prominently over nine games during his rookie year and seven during his second season. His transition to the Pittsburgh Steelers as a backup quarterback saw him continue to resonate within the football community even after he had not played regular-season games with the team.
His career was characterized by both potential and turmoil, with Haskins displaying immense talent but also facing challenges during his time on and off the field. He signed with the Steelers following the conclusion of the 2020 season, securing the position as part of Pittsburgh’s future plans, but tragically never realized those aspirations.
News of his death shocked fans and fellow players alike, prompting hundreds to attend his memorial service held in Pittsburgh—a reflection of his impact on the community and the sport. Stories and tributes flowed from colleagues and friends, underscoring the loss felt across the NFL and beyond.
With the settlement of the wrongful death lawsuit, the legal proceedings surrounding Haskins' passing have officially concluded. For Kalabrya Haskins, the road to recovery may still be long, as she navigates life after such ineffable loss. Yet the resolution brings some semblance of closure to the legal disputes surrounding her husband's tragic fate, allowing her to focus on honoring his memory without the weight of pending litigation.
This case serves as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by individuals on public roads and the importance of responsible behavior, both from individuals and organizations who serve alcohol or oversee public spaces. The legacy of Dwayne Haskins, as both a talented athlete and cherished individual, will undoubtedly live on, even as his family and fans process the loss.
