Published on: January 10, 2026, 07:33h.
Updated on: January 10, 2026, 07:34h.
- A man tragically fell to his death at the Emerald Queen Casino on December 20.
- An attorney for the family is advocating for improvements within the tribal casino.
- The family asserts they are not currently pursuing legal action.
Following the tragic incident where a man fell to his death at the Emerald Queen Casino just before Christmas, his family is consulting with an attorney to explore their options.
Authorities have determined that Evan Potifara’s death was accidental, occurring on Saturday night, December 20. An investigation revealed he fell through a glass partition, landing multiple stories below in the casino’s lobby, close to the escalators leading to the gaming floor.
As reported by KING 5 News, Potifara’s family has consulted with an attorney but is currently not pursuing a lawsuit against the tribal casino operated by the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. Instead, they are engaged in an ongoing conversation.
Their attorney has indicated that safety improvements are crucial at the tribal casino.
Safety Concerns
The family is collaborating with attorney James Bible from the Bible Law Group, known for securing over $40 million in settlements. He operates out of Bellevue, WA.
“James Bible’s consistent advocacy and success in achieving significant settlements have greatly impacted the community, holding accountable those at fault and fostering beneficial changes,” states Bible’s website.
In an interview with KING 5, Bible criticized the casino for not implementing adequate safety measures, particularly with the glass partitions that were prone to failure.
“It’s expected that a person might lean against a wall or glass. What is unexpected is for it to shatter,” stated Bible.
“We are horrified by what Evan must have experienced, as well as the distress of those trying to aid him,” Bible added.
Potifara did not succumb to his injuries immediately; he was heard crying out in the lobby as first responders arrived. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Memorial Proposal
In conjunction with advocating for safety improvements at Emerald Queen Casino, the family is also proposing to commemorate Evan Potifara by naming part of the lobby in his honor.
“Creating a tribute with a portrait and acknowledgment of the incident could be a meaningful step forward,” Bible commented.
Currently, the family is not pursuing legal action; however, Bible warns that this could change if the Puyallup Tribal Council declines to meet and engage with the family’s concerns.
The tribe has not publicly commented on the unfortunate incident or the family’s discussions with James Bible.