Private School Denies Blame After 15-Year-Old Student Is Fatally Crushed Between Cars in School Parking Lot

A California private school is facing legal action following the tragic death of a 15-year-old student in June 2025. Cosmo Silverman lost his life in the pickup area of Campbell Hall, a prestigious K-12 institution located in Studio City, when he was crushed between two SUVs. His parents, Adam and Louise Silverman, filed a wrongful death lawsuit in December, holding the school responsible for the fatal incident.

In its response to the lawsuit, Campbell Hall has refuted claims of liability, stating that the accident and subsequent injuries were solely due to “the plaintiffs’ own negligence.” This assertion was outlined in a legal document submitted on February 26, which was reviewed by PEOPLE. The school contends that Cosmo’s actions were the primary cause of the tragic event.

Furthermore, Campbell Hall has initiated a cross-complaint against the owner and driver of the vehicle that struck Cosmo, along with Rivian, the manufacturer of the involved SUV. The school argues that should they be found liable, these parties should share financial responsibility proportional to their level of fault in the accident.

A representative for the alleged driver has yet to respond to media inquiries regarding this legal matter, and Rivian has also remained silent on the school’s claims. Meanwhile, Robert Glassman, the attorney representing the Silverman family, has expressed strong objections to Campbell Hall’s allegations. He described the school’s claims as “ludicrous, vile and heartless,” and insisted that the SUV had been thoroughly examined by both the Los Angeles Police Department and independent experts without identifying any mechanical defects.

Glassman further criticized Campbell Hall for shifting the blame onto the victim while neglecting to address their own failures concerning safety measures in the school’s parking lot. He stated that the lawsuit was necessitated by the lack of meaningful dialogue with the school’s insurance company, which he claims refused to acknowledge the school’s accountability.

Cosmo’s parents allege that the school’s administration had been aware of safety issues in the parking lot prior to their son’s death but failed to implement adequate measures to address them. The couple argues that basic safety protocols should have been established well before the incident occurred. Glassman indicated that their motivation for filing the lawsuit stemmed from a desire to ensure that no other family experiences a similar tragedy, rather than from a place of anger.

In communication with the school community, Head of School Rev. Canon Julian P. Bull acknowledged the legal action but stated that further public comments would be limited due to the ongoing litigation. He expressed condolences to the Silverman family and those grieving Cosmo’s passing, affirming ongoing prayers for their comfort during this difficult time.

The ramifications of this sad case extend beyond the individuals involved, highlighting pressing concerns around safety in school environments, particularly in areas that are heavily trafficked by vehicles. As the legal proceedings develop, the broader implications for school safety policies and procedures may come under scrutiny, prompting a conversation about the responsibilities educational institutions hold in protecting their students.

The Silverman family’s decision to pursue legal action underscores a growing expectation for schools to maintain safe environments for pupils. With safety protocols often forming the backbone of school policies, this incident places pressure on Campbell Hall to reconsider its parking lot design and management to prevent any future tragedies.

As the legal battle unfolds, both sides will likely present their arguments in a court setting, which has now become an essential avenue for the Silvermans to seek accountability for their son’s untimely death. The outcome of this case may set a precedent that could influence both perceptions of school liability and the establishment of comprehensive safety measures at educational institutions across the region.