Cinemark sued over Colo. theater shootings

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AURORA, Colo., Sept. 22 (UPI) -- Three victims of the July theater shooting in Aurora, Colo., filed suit against the theater owner, alleging there should have been security guards on duty.

Two lawsuits filed Friday against Cinemark USA contended the large crowd at the late-night showing of the Batman film "The Dark Knight Rises" should have warranted tighter security.

The midnight movie in July was interrupted when a gunman opened fire inside the crowded theater, killing 12 customers and wounding 58 others.

"Although the theater was showing a midnight premier of the movie and was expecting large crowds of people to attend the midnight showing, no security personnel were present for that showing," said the two suits, which CNN said were filed by the same law firm.

"The exterior doors to the theater were lacking in any alarm system, interlocking security systems, or any other security or alarm features," the suit said.

The Los Angeles Times said the suit took Cinemark to task for not monitoring the rear parking lot where accused killer James Holmes allegedly made his escape.

The suit contended that security guards have patrolled the Aurora theater complex on weekends due to occasional assaults and robberies. The shooting occurred early Friday.

The Denver Post said there were no specific monetary demands in the lawsuits but the plaintiffs claimed damages of more than $750,000.

Cinemark had no immediate comment on the lawsuits.

Cinemark informed Aurora city officials this week they intended to re-open the multiplex

No exact date was given but the company said it would be around the first of the year, the Post said.

"I am confident Cinemark will continue to remain sensitive to victims, their families, their employees and our community throughout their process of remodeling and reopening," said Aurora Mayor Fred Hogan.