4 days ago
Fan hit by concrete at Dodgers game claims he was discriminated against
A New York Yankees fan who was hit by a piece of falling concrete at Dodger Stadium says that he felt 'discriminated against' after the incident.
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Luis Ricardo Aquino was in his seat during a game last week between the Yankees and Dodgers in L.A. when a softball-sized chunk of concrete hit him in the back.
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The Mexico City resident said that he initially thought it had been thrown at him by a fan rival – the Yankees and Dodgers met in the World Series last year — however, it was later found to have fallen from the deck above him.
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Aquino was treated at the stadium for his injuries – which he has now revealed to be a broken rib – and is now speaking out about the incident and what he claims was the initial question he was asked by first responders.
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'The first question the police asked me if I had papers, and I said, 'Yes, I am on my visa.' I had to give them my visa and they took it from me. I am angry because I felt discriminated against,' he told KTLA, noting he was fearful of the line of questioning.
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Aquino also explained why he refused further medical help at the time.
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'The paramedics did treat me and checked my vitals, but everything seemed OK,' he said. 'They asked if I wanted to go to a hospital, but this is not my country, so I did not feel comfortable.'
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While this type of incident at a major league ballpark could invite lawsuits, Aquino said he agreed to not file a complaint over it – in return for some souvenirs.
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After he returned to his seat following his treatment, Aquino was brought a jersey, some bracelets and a Max Muncy bobblehead. He also said that no one from the team or stadium followed up with him or offered an apology.
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The Dodgers did take action in one regard – a small section of protective netting was installed under the top deck where the piece of concrete fell from, located between home plate and first base.
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