(CNN) The helicopter company involved in the January crash that killed NBA legend Kobe Bryant denied wrongdoing and claimed that he and his daughter Gianna knew of the risks involved in flying, according to court papers. The filing came in response to a wrongful death suit filed by Vanessa Bryant, Kobe's widow, on February 24, the same day a memorial service was held for Kobe and Gianna Bryant . The lawsuit held Island Express and pilot Ara Zobayan responsible for the crash, citing numerous counts of negligence. The helicopter crashed into hilly terrain in foggy conditions on January 26. The flight was on its way to Thousand Oaks, California, for a basketball game, where Gianna, 13, was expected to play and Kobe, 41, was expected to coach.

Source: CNN May 12, 2020 18:11 UTC