Woman sues over death of partner at Indiana fair

A Chicago woman has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit in Indiana seeking damages for the death of her same-sex partner in a stage collapse at the Indiana State Fair.

Alisha Brennon and Christina Santiago entered into a civil union in Chicago in June. Because the union is not recognized in Indiana, the state’s courts must determine whether Brennon can seek compensation in her partner’s death. Santiago was one of seven people killed by the Aug. 13 stage collapse.

Brennon’s attorney, Kenneth Allen, says it is egregious that in Illinois and other states civil unions are recognized, but in Indiana they become nonpersons.

Northwestern University political science professor Andrew Koppelman said Monday that Brennon is going to have a hard time with the lawsuit because Indiana law does not recognize civil unions.