In a gripping legal battle that underscores the potential perils of unsanctioned events, Sidney M. Harden has filed a lawsuit against multiple defendants, including Skyway Shops, LLC and Bruce Strumpf, Inc., following a violent incident at a boxing event. The complaint was lodged in the Circuit Court of Pinellas County, Florida on May 9, 2025, naming Skyway Shops and several other entities as responsible parties.
The case revolves around an October 30, 2021 boxing match held at a commercial property managed by Skyway Shops. Harden attended the event as an invitee but tragically became the victim of a criminal shooting incident on the premises. The lawsuit alleges that various defendants, including Neighborhood Boxing League and Toriano’s LLC, were negligent in their organization and management of the event. According to Harden's complaint, these entities failed to secure proper licenses for the boxing match and neglected essential safety measures. The plaintiff asserts that this negligence led to his sustaining multiple gunshot wounds requiring emergency medical intervention.
Harden accuses the defendants of failing to provide adequate security despite knowing the high crime rate in the area. The complaint details how alcohol consumption and gambling exacerbated tensions during the event, ultimately contributing to violence. "Defendant SKYWAY further encouraged...the use of alcohol and drugs on its Premises," states one section of the filing. Furthermore, it is alleged that Neighborhood Boxing League had previously received cease-and-desist directives from regulatory authorities but continued with unlicensed events regardless.
In seeking justice, Harden demands compensatory damages exceeding $30,000 for permanent bodily injury, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and other losses resulting from the incident. He also calls for a jury trial to resolve these issues.
Representing Sidney M. Harden is attorney Aaron A. Karger from North Miami Beach-based Law Office of Aaron A. Karger. As this case unfolds under Case Number 25-002493-CI in front of Pinellas County's judicial system, it brings into sharp focus questions about responsibility and safety at public events.