New Las Vegas police documents obtained by Us Weekly reveal that Scott“Carrot Top”Thompson learned about a sexual misconduct lawsuit filed against him just minutes before his September 18 suicide attempt. According to the report, his tour manager told investigators a news article about the lawsuit broke around 3:20pm that day, and Thompson grew upset and worried his shows would be stopped. He later texted his manager the word“done”before becoming unreachable.
A woman who was asked to check on Thompson found him unconscious in his backyard next to his pool and called for help. The 61-year-old comedian, who has headlined a Luxor Casino residency in Las Vegas since 2005, was hospitalized, and his Friday and Saturday shows were canceled. His rep says he is now awake, breathing on his own, and continuing to improve surrounded by family.
The misconduct allegations remain unproven, and this story touches two sensitive subjects at once: how fast breaking legal news can affect the people named in it, and how much pressure public figures face before any verdict. If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available by call or text, 24/7.
What’s your take: should media outlets hold off on naming people in lawsuits until the case plays out? Sound off in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.