KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV/Gray News) – A new lawsuit filed against Family Dollar claims the owners knew a Missouri location was not structurally sound before its roof collapsed, killing a 68-year-old man and injuring several others.
Records filed Friday in the Jackson County, Missouri, Circuit Court reveal 50-year-old Tammy Martin was left with permanent disabilities due to the fatal roof collapse. She has filed a lawsuit against Family Dollar for negligence.
The collapse happened just before 2:45 p.m. at 3726 Broadway Blvd. in Kansas City, Missouri. It took the life of a 68-year-old man.
Martin’s lawsuit claims she was crushed by pieces of the fallen roof, causing severe, permanent injuries to her entire body, including her head, face, neck and spine. She says her injuries have caused her substantial healthcare expenses, loss of enjoyment of life and permanent disability.
As a result of the injuries, she is expected to continue to rack up medical expenses and lose wages due to a loss of earning capacity.
The lawsuit names Arthur Fels Company, Family Dollar Stores of Missouri, LLC, and Family Dollar, Inc. Martin wants them to pay more than $25,000 in compensatory damages.
The suit places liability on Family Dollar and Arthur Fels, as they had a duty to maintain and inspect the store but allegedly failed to do so. All three entities failed to warn customers of the hazards of the building, the suit claims.
Specifically, Martin’s lawyers cite a 2016 car crash at the store that knocked down a support pillar in the front of the building. The lawsuit stated the beam was never replaced nor repaired.
The suit claims that before the roof collapsed, the owners had even been warned that the building looked as if it might give in. It alleges they knew the risk, as the store was not structurally stable.
On top of damages, Martin is seeking a jury trial to hear the case.
Meanwhile, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration says it has launched an investigation into the collapse. The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department is also conducting its own investigation.
City officials say full responsibility lies with the property owner.
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