A prominent Las Vegas hospitality couple is grieving the sudden loss of their 25-year-old son.
Eli Morton, the son of Jenna and Michael Morton, died Tuesday afternoon in his hometown of Las Vegas.
The Mortons announced the family tragedy Tuesday night in a statement exclusive to the Review-Journal:
“With profound sadness, Jenna and Michael Morton share the passing of their dear son, Elijah Zane Morton. Eli was a bright, creative leader who saw possibility everywhere. He was an endlessly innovative young man with a natural gift for entrepreneurship.”
“Unfortunately, he also suffered from the disease of addiction” the couple continued. “He lived his life to the fullest, and his family is grateful that he is now at peace. Above all, the family wants him to be remembered for his kindness, curiosity, joy, and fun.”
The Mortons said they entrusted the news here because of a long and close family relationship. The Mortons have been friends of ours for about two decades.
The Mortons declined further comment, saying, “The family is asking for privacy during this time.”
The Mortons co-founded Morton Group, in the Morton restaurant dynasty originally linked to Morton’s The Steakhouse and the Hard Rock brand. The couple has developed popular culinary destinations as La Cave at Wynn, Crush at MGM Grand, One Steakhouse at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and Nudo Italiano in Southern Highlands.
Michael is the son of the late Morton’s The Steakhouse founder Arnie Morton.
In 1999, Michael Morton and Scott DeGraff co-founded N9NE Group, which opened N9NE Steakhouse (today’s Scotch 80 space), Rain Nightclub (Kaos today), The Playboy Club, Nove Italiano, Moon Nightclub and Ghostbar at the Palms.
Philanthropically, Jenna Morton has served as the board chair of the Council for a Better Nevada and After School All Stars Las Vegas, and she remains a board member for each. She is also a past president of the Las Vegas Springs Preserve Foundation.
John Katsilometes’ column runs daily in the A section. Contact him at [email protected]. Follow @johnnykats on X, @JohnnyKats1 on Instagram.