A Lawsuit Two Years After a Fatal Crash
The family of a New York couple killed in a crash at the Rainbow Bridge border crossing near Niagara Falls has filed a lawsuit against Bentley Motors, Volkswagen, and two dealerships, alleging a mechanical malfunction in the couple’s 2022 Bentley Flying Spur caused the deadly wreck. The claims outlined in the lawsuit are allegations only and have not been proven in court.
What the Lawsuit Alleges Happened
According to the 33-page complaint, Kurt and Monica Villani were driving toward the U.S.-Canada border when their vehicle suddenly accelerated without warning. The lawsuit alleges the car’s electronic throttle system malfunctioned, causing an unintended and unstoppable acceleration.
What Security Footage Reportedly Shows
According to the filing, security footage shows the Bentley leaving its intended path, striking a curb, and traveling a significant distance through the air before striking a border checkpoint. The impact was severe enough that officials closed the crossing immediately, and first responders reportedly considered the possibility of a deliberate attack before determining the cause was a vehicle malfunction.
Central Claim: A Failed Brake Override System
A key allegation in the lawsuit involves the vehicle’s brake override system, a safety feature designed specifically to stop unintended acceleration events like the one described. The family’s attorneys allege the system either failed or wasn’t functioning properly at the time of the crash. The lawsuit also points to Bentley recalls addressing pedal-related issues on Flying Spur models in Europe and Australia, alleging that a similar recall was never issued in the United States.
The Circumstances Leading Up to the Crash
According to the filing, the couple had stopped at a casino to exchange currency before planning to attend a concert in Toronto. The lawsuit states the vehicle’s sudden acceleration began at 11:22 a.m., with the crash following shortly after.
Defendants Named
The lawsuit names Bentley, Volkswagen, and dealerships Suburban Exotic Motorcars and Troy Exotics as defendants, alleging negligence on the part of each party. Investigators had previously classified the crash as an accident, but the family’s lawsuit disputes that characterization, alleging the crash resulted from an underlying mechanical defect rather than driver error. None of the allegations in the lawsuit have been proven, and the defendants have not yet publicly responded to the claims.