Kobe Bryant's family to settle suit over crash that killed NBA legend
A mural by artist Brian Peterson shows late LA Lakers icon Kobe Bryant holding his Oscar, won in 2018 for Best Animated Short Film “Dear Basketball,” in the Dolby theater complex in Los Angeles, U.S., June 17, 2021. (AFP Photo)


The families of basketball legend Kobe Bryant and others who died in a helicopter crash in 2020 have decided to settle a lawsuit related to the accident.

The lawsuit targeted the late pilot's estate and the company that owned and operated the helicopter.

Kobe Bryant's widow, Vanessa Bryant, was among those suing the estate of pilot Ara Zobayan, as well as Island Express Helicopters filed a notice in court that read, "Plaintiffs and Defendants jointly report that they have agreed to settle their claims in the above-entitled action," multiple media outlets reported.

No details of the settlement were revealed. The court still must approve the proposed agreement.

Nine people died in the crash near Calabasas, California, on Jan. 26, 2020. Kobe Bryant, his 14-year-old daughter Gianna Bryant, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Christina Mauser, Sarah Chester, Payton Chester and Zobayan were all headed to a youth basketball tournament in Ventura County, California.

Earlier this year, the National Transportation Safety Board issued a report that blamed the crash on pilot error while also criticizing Island Express Helicopters for safety failures.

Island Express Helicopters disputed the decision, terming the crash "an act of God."

The company has also filed a countersuit against two air traffic controllers.