Anton Yelchin's parents file wrongful death lawsuit against Fiat Chrysler
(FOX 11) - The heartbroken parents of actor Anton Yelchin held a news conference Tuesday morning to talk about the loss of their only son.
"It is wrong, against nature when parents bury their own child," says Victor Yelchin.
On Tuesday, Victor and his wife Irina filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Fiat Chrysler. The couple allege the company knew the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee their son was driving, had a faulty gear shifting design and they say the company kept it from the public.
Gary Dordick is their attorney.
"This vehicle prior to Anton's death had over 700 roll away incidents, over 200 crashes and dozens and dozens of people injured that they knew about," he said.
It was on June 19, 2016 when Yelchin was pinned between his Jeep Cherokee and the gate at his house in Studio City. Police say Yelchin had stepped out of his vehicle when it rolled backward, down his driveway and pinned Yelchin against a security fence.
The Coroner stated Yelchin died of blunt traumatic asphyxia.
"The safety recall was way too little and way too late," Dordick said. "If you look at the recall letter, 'Dear Anton Yelchin, your car is defective. It can roll away.' They mailed that letter, 7 days after he died."
Anton Yelchin was best known for his portrayal of Chekov in the new "Star Trek" Films. But the 27-year-old actor had worked in show business since he was a child.
His parents say they appreciate the outpouring of support from Anton's fans.
"Every morning, we're getting text messages or emails from his friends and all around the world saying, 'we're missing him'. Anton was our only son and a remarkable human being."
No comment from Fiat Chrysler on this lawsuit, but the company says it is working on recalling all vehicles that are affected by this faulty gear design.
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