Rebecca Grossman Faces $100M Civil Trial Following Tragic Deaths of Iskander Brothers
Civil Trial Begins for Rebecca Grossman Over Fatal 2020 Crash
LOS ANGELES – A civil trial commenced on Friday in Van Nuys against Rebecca Grossman and former MLB pitcher Scott Erickson in connection with the tragic 2020 deaths of brothers Mark and Jacob Iskander in Westlake Village.
In this wrongful death lawsuit, the Iskander family seeks upwards of $100 million in damages. Grossman, who is currently serving a prison sentence of 15 years to life for second-degree murder, is accused of racing SUVs alongside Erickson when the incident occurred.
The crash, which took place in September 2020, claimed the lives of 11-year-old Mark and 8-year-old Jacob. During the previous criminal trial, prosecutors established that Grossman was driving her white Mercedes SUV at speeds reaching 81 mph while competing with Erickson. The latter has avoided jail time by completing a safe-driving public service announcement but is still a central figure in this civil case.
"In this trial, we will show the devastating impact of this tragedy on the Iskander family," said Brian Panish, the attorney representing the family, emphasizing their loss. He stated the family is pursuing significant damages to hold the defendants accountable for their actions.
During the opening statements, Panish expressed, "The most important thing for the Iskanders was family. Their children were their joy, their strength." In contrast, Deborah Tropp, who represents Erickson, contended that her client acted to clear the intersection safely, asserting he is not liable for the tragedy.
Grossman’s defense team similarly shifted blame onto Erickson, with attorney Esther Holm arguing that there has been a "rush to judgment" in assigning full responsibility to Grossman, downplaying Erickson’s part.
It remains unclear how the jury will determine fault among the parties involved, including the potential contribution of the City of Westlake Village for what has been described as a "dangerous roadway" with inadequate lighting. Erickson is anticipated to testify, although Grossman’s presence remains uncertain as it is undecided whether she will be brought from prison to testify in person or if her previous statements will suffice.
The trial is expected to unfold over approximately two months, with several key witnesses, including former MLB player Royce Clayton, scheduled to take the stand. Unlike the criminal proceedings, the civil trial only requires the jury to find that it is "more likely than not" that the defendants are liable for the damages.
