Barker sues over fatal plane crash

Travis Barker has reportedly filed a lawsuit against a number of companies connected to a September air crash in which he and DJ AM were the sole survivors.

The former Blink-182 drummer is suing the plane's owner, maintenance companies, and two charter companies that brokered the flight, The AP reports.

Barker claims the Learjet was improperly operated and maintained, and is seeking more than $25,000 (£16,800) in damages.

He and DJ AM, real name Adam Goldstein, were taken to hospital suffering from second and third degree burns sustained in the South Carolina crash. The plane's two pilots, Barker's assistant Chris Baker, and Barker's bodyguard Charles Monroe Still Jr, died.

Global Exec Aviation, Bombardier Inc, Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, Clay Lacy Aviation Inc, Inter Travel and Services Inc, and Does 1-100, are also named in the court papers.

A statement from Goodyear said it was "unfortunate" that the suit was filed before an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board was completed, adding: "While the tires may have been involved, it is too early to speculate on a cause. The performance of the tire is dependent on how the tire was used, if it was properly maintained and whether it was damaged before the accident."

Still's mother, Thelma Martin Still, is also suing the companies for damages including grief and sorrow, funeral expenses and loss of earnings.