Roots, Toots n' Hoots Blog

Sugarland tragedy breeds stupidity

Jeffrey Remz  |  December 28, 2011

As if the Sugarland concert tragedy at the Indiana State Fair did not provide heartache, the wind-created deadly disaster that killed seven also apparently lent itself to stupidity.

Two women were arrested by Indiana authorities on Tuesday and charged with fraud among other charges. Stephanie Murry, 25, and Sandra Hurn, 38, allegedly tried to cash in on the tragedy by filing false claims after the disaster with the Indiana State Fair Remembrance Fund and the Indiana Tort Claim Fund. They tried to get $22,500 from the funds.

Fortunately, at least one of the women was apparently dim-witted, which caused authorities to question the claims. Hurn said in her statement that the tragedy occurred after Sugarland played a few songs. Fortunately for the band, they never hit the stage. Unfortunately, for Hurn, that was a red flag.

There are always people who are ready and willing to take advantage of the tragedies that befall others. Perhaps we have two here - a story in the Indianapolis Star indicated that Hurn confessed to the ruse.

Murry and Hurn face lengthy prison terms and fines. How sad is it that people can be so nefarious for the love of money. Now, they will get what they deserve.