Hallmark Star Michael Heslin’s Death Leads to Wrongful Death Lawsuit Against Las Vegas Restaurant

Las Vegas, NV — A wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against Javier’s at the Aria Hotel and the Aria property itself, following the sudden and tragic death of Hallmark actor Michael Edward Heslin. The lawsuit, submitted by his husband, Scotty Dynamo, in Clark County District Court on September 18, alleges gross negligence on the part of restaurant staff and management after Heslin suffered a medical emergency while dining in June 2024.

The Incident

According to the lawsuit, on June 25, 2024, Heslin was dining at Javier’s, a high-end Mexican restaurant inside the Aria Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, with two friends. While seated, he collapsed and displayed “obvious signs of a medical emergency.”

Friends at the table immediately called for help and attempted to seat him on the floor. During this time, multiple employees of Javier’s allegedly observed Heslin’s condition but did not engage in any life-saving measures.

A “female patron” began administering CPR, but according to battery of documents included with the lawsuit, was forcibly prevented from continuing by restaurant staff. Additionally, an on-site Automated External Defibrillator (AED)—which the restaurant reportedly had—was not retrieved despite its potential to save Heslin’s life.

The complaint further alleges that Heslin’s friends were removed from the premises amid the unfolding crisis. They also claim that restaurant employees threatened to arrest or trespass those trying to assist or document the situation. Witnesses reportedly attempted to record video footage of what was happening, only to be told by employees that the videos must be deleted.

The Aftermath

Michael Heslin did not immediately die at the restaurant. The lawsuit states that he passed away a week later, on July 2, 2024. While the lawsuit does not specify a definitive cause of death, it characterizes Heslin’s passing as a result of “unexpected cardiac arrest.” His husband, Dynamo, has publicly stated that Heslin was in good health, and that medical professionals were unable to offer a clear explanation for his fatal collapse.

Legal Claims and Allegations

The lawsuit, filed by Heslin’s husband, includes multiple counts:

• Wrongful death
• Loss of consortium
• Negligence
• Negligent hiring, supervision, retention, and training
• Gross negligence

The complaint argues that the defendants’ failures—both individually and cumulatively—“proximately caused or substantially contributed to Michael’s preventable death.” It also asserts that the tragedy was “avoidable.”

In terms of damages, the suit seeks compensation in excess of $30,000 (plus funeral expenses) and asks for punitive damages, along with legal costs. Some reports note portions of the claim are specifically for amounts over $15,000 under Nevada statutes for special and general damages.

Reactions

MGM Resorts International, which operates the Aria Hotel, has issued a denial in response to the allegations. In a statement, the company said that the claims in the lawsuit “are not aligned with the facts,” and that it will respond through appropriate legal channels.

There has been no detailed public comment from Javier’s at Aria or its management regarding the specific allegations of failing to provide lifesaving care or interfering with bystander assistance.

The Late Actor — Personal Details

Michael Heslin was 35 years old at the time of his death. He had appeared in the TV series Lioness and the movie The Holiday Plan. According to his husband, Heslin was in “perfect health,” and the couple were in the early stages of starting a family when the tragedy occurred.

Broader Implications

This case has drawn public attention not only because of Heslin’s passing but also due to the serious allegations that a commercial establishment denied life-saving intervention and arguably impeded bystander efforts to help. The lawsuit raises questions about the legal obligations of restaurants and other public venues concerning emergency medical response, staff training for medical crises, access to AEDs, and how staff should respond when bystanders attempt to help.

The outcome of the lawsuit could have implications for policy, safety protocols, and liability for restaurants, particularly in places like Las Vegas where high volumes of tourists are common. Legal experts say similar cases may influence how commercial entities train their staff and how regulations may evolve to enforce medical emergency preparedness. (Note: these broader implications are based on commentary surrounding the case.)

What’s Next

The lawsuit remains pending. A court date has not yet been publicly reported. Evidence that the plaintiff will likely need to present includes witness statements, video or photographic documentation, health and medical records regarding Heslin’s cause of death, and any internal records from the restaurant or hotel showing what emergency protocols were in place. Defendants will have the opportunity to challenge the claims—including whether an AED was available and whether staff interventions conformed to their training and to legal standards.

As developments occur—such as depositions, hearings, motions to dismiss, or settlements—more information may become public. For now, the case has thrust a tragic death into the spotlight and raised serious concerns about public safety, emergency response, and the responsibilities of public venues.