Phoenix to Pay $2 Million in Wrongful Death Suit Over Fire Department’s Response to Child’s Seizure
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Teh settlement resolves allegations that firefighters declined to transport a 2-year-old boy to the hospital after a seizure, leading to his death later that day.
The City of PHOENIX has agreed to a $2 million settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit concerning the death of ABRAHAM CLUGSTON, a 2-year-old boy.
Filed by the CLUGSTON family, the lawsuit alleges that ABRAHAM CLUGSTON died after PHOENIX firefighters determined that transport to a hospital following a seizure was unnecessary, according to reports from 12 News. The child died later the same day.
According to the legal complaint,ABRAHAM’s mother placed a 911 call in April 2022 in the early morning hours after the boy experienced his first seizure. A PHOENIX Fire Department crew arrived within ten minutes to evaluate the situation. The suit claims ABRAHAM’s mother “begged” the firefighters to take her son to the hospital, but they reportedly told her it wasn’t necessary.
The lawsuit further alleges that instead of transporting ABRAHAM, firefighters advised his mother to administer TYLENOL and IBUPROFEN, assuring her that seizures were normal. When she continued to voice her concerns, they allegedly dismissed her as “overreacting.”
A second 911 call was placed, and ABRAHAM was subsequently transported to the hospital. Despite extensive life-saving measures,the 2-year-old died.
More than three years later, on June 18, the PHOENIX City Council unanimously approved the $2 million settlement for the CLUGSTON family. Following the vote, a city spokesperson issued t
Settlement Approved by City Council
The settlement, approved by the PHOENIX City Council, aims to provide some measure of closure for the CLUGSTON family following the tragic loss of their son. The city has not admitted fault in the incident.
The suit claims ABRAHAM’s mother “begged” the firefighters to take her son to the hospital, but they reportedly told her it wasn’t necessary.
Details of the settlement agreement are subject to public record. The city has stated that it will review its emergency response protocols in light of the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a febrile seizure?
- A febrile seizure is a convulsion in a young child triggered by a fever. they are most common between 6 months and 5 years of age.
- Are febrile seizures perilous?
- Most febrile seizures are harmless and do not cause long-term health problems. Though, it’s vital to seek medical attention to rule out other potential causes.
- What should I do if my child has a febrile seizure?
- Stay calm,protect your child from injury,and seek medical attention. Note the duration of the seizure and any symptoms.
- What is EMS protocol?
- EMS protocols are guidelines that emergency medical service providers follow to assess and treat patients.These protocols ensure consistent and appropriate care.
- Why did the PHOENIX City Council approve the settlement?
- The settlement was approved to resolve a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the CLUGSTON family.The city has not admitted fault in the incident.
