Georgia reached a settlement with football recruiting staffer injured in crash

The University of Georgia has released details of the settlement between the UGA Athletic Association and a former football recruiting staffer who filed a civil lawsuit after sustaining serious injuries in a Jan. 15, 2023, crash that killed two from the football program.

Victory “Tory” Bowles was paid $1.5 million by UGA Athletic Association insurers “on behalf of UGAA,” according to a 15-page confidential settlement agreement released Tuesday afternoon. The agreement, dated Aug. 19, was received by the Athens Banner-Herald in an open records request.

Bowles was a backseat passenger in the SUV rented by UGA that was driven by recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy, who was killed along with offensive lineman Devin Willock in the crash. Police said LeCroy was racing with defensive tackle Jalen Carter following a national championship celebration.

Police said LeCroy was driving with a blood alcohol level at more than twice the legal limit, and she and Carter were racing at more than 100 mph.

The lawsuit had alleged that Georgia was negligent by allowing LeCroy to drive the SUV even though it knew she had multiple driving offenses. UGA contended that LeCroy was not permitted to drive the SUV during a night of drinking and partying.

Bowles is seeking at least $5 million from Carter in another lawsuit, according to an October court filing. She alleges the now Philadelphia Eagles player failed to assist those in the SUV after it crashed that early morning.

Bowles was left with about 20 fractures, including spinal fractures, and a rare pain disorder caused by spinal cord damage in addition to lacerations to both kidneys, her liver and a collapsed lung, according to that filing. Her medical expenses were listed in October of at least $171,595, and the filing asserts that she has lost income of at least $17,809 and remains unable to work.

UGA fired Bowles in 2023 when she was on unpaid leave from her job.

The agreement states the both parties agreed to the statement released in an Aug. 29 court filing in State Court in Gwinnett County that said: “The Parties agreed to resolve Ms. Bowles’ claim to avoid further litigation, without either party admitting fault or assigning fault.”

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: University of Georgia, football recruiting staffer reach settlement