Wrongful Death Suit Filed on Behalf of Tampa Girl
Nov 9, 2012
Tampa, FL (Law Firm Newswire) November 8, 2012 – The management company of a Tampa apartment complex is being sued in the wake of the death of a local seven-year-old girl.
Zhanaye Williams was killed when a gate collapsed on top of her at Brookside Apartments, where she lived.
“It is hard to imagine an event more tragic than the death of a child,” said Tampa personal injury attorney Robert Joyce, “particularly if the accident was preventable.”
The accident happened on April 11. While waiting for the school bus that morning, Williams and two classmates were playing on the broken gate. Williams rode the gate while the two boys pushed her back and forth. The gate then fell on the girl, pinning her beneath it. Williams was rushed to St. Joseph’s Hospital, but died from her injuries later that day. An autopsy report said head trauma was the cause of death.
According to the firm filing the wrongful death suit, residents had previously complained that the gate was often in disrepair. It was broken, and at times, held upright by a single chain.
The wrongful death suit was filed on behalf of Williams’ estate against Brookside Tampa LLC and Franklin Street Apartment Management Services. Although the suit does not specify an amount, it seeks damages exceeding $15,000.
Franklin Street Management filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization on Brookside Apartments in 2009. A long list of necessary repairs to the property was partly to blame for the company’s financial troubles.
The complaint also alleges that Williams’ brother was at the scene of the accident and has claims stemming from the accident as well.
Zhanaye Williams was a student at Riverhills Elementary School. School officials had a crisis team visit on the day of Williams’ death to help students cope with the tragic news.
“In cases of accidental injuries and deaths, it is important for victims to know their rights,” added Mr. Joyce. “Anyone who suspects another party may be at fault should speak to a qualified personal injury attorney right away.”
To learn more or to contact a Tampa personal injury lawyer at the Joyce & Reyes Law Firm, P.A. visit http://www.joyceandreyespa.com/ or call 1.888.771.1529.
Joyce and Reyes Law Firm, P.A.
307 S Hyde Park Ave,
Tampa, FL 33606
Call: 813.251.2007
