LAS VEGAS, NV – The tragic death of a 17-year-old high school student, Jonathan Lewis, has taken a new turn as his mother, Melissa Ready, has filed a lawsuit against the Clark County School District (CCSD). Ready alleges that the district’s negligence contributed to her son’s death, which occurred after a brutal beating by classmates in November 2023.
The heartbreaking incident was captured in a viral video, showing Lewis being attacked by fellow students. Despite the severity of the assault, no one intervened to stop it. Lewis succumbed to his injuries six days later, leaving his family devastated and seeking justice.
In a poignant statement, Ready expressed her anguish over the lack of accountability. “There is no justice for my son, Jonathan Lewis. He was murdered while others stood by, filming and sharing it on social media,” she said. The altercation reportedly stemmed from a dispute over stolen marijuana vape pens.
Nine teenagers were arrested and charged in connection with Lewis’s death. However, they all accepted plea deals that spared them prison time, a decision that has left Ready feeling outraged. “It was the most inhumane beating I’ve ever witnessed, and I don’t know how they can live with it,” she lamented.
The lawsuit accuses CCSD of ignoring ongoing issues between Lewis and other students, which Ready believes could have prevented the fatal attack. She is pursuing claims of wrongful death and negligence against the school district.
Additionally, the lawsuit names the property owner where the attack took place, citing a failure to address known criminal activity in the area. Ready contends that steps should have been taken to prevent such a tragedy.
Ready’s call for change extends beyond legal action. “We need to set a better example for our children,” she urged, emphasizing the importance of community support and guidance.
The records of the teenagers involved have been sealed as part of their plea agreements. Meanwhile, CCSD has declined to comment on the ongoing litigation due to their policy on pending legal matters.