A shocking incident at a popular entertainment venue has led to a lawsuit that could have significant implications for property management and safety standards. Thotyelwa Mhlakaza-Faust filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida, on October 2, 2024, against Harbourside Place LLC and Allied Management Associates, LLC. The lawsuit stems from an alleged dangerous electrical condition at the Harbourside Place amphitheater fountain that resulted in serious injuries.
According to the complaint, Thotyelwa Mhlakaza-Faust was present at Harbourside Place on October 22, 2023, when she witnessed a child being electrocuted by an electrified fountain at the venue. The child’s parent or family friend also suffered electrocution while attempting a rescue. Mhlakaza-Faust claims she sustained physical injuries and severe emotional distress after witnessing these events and trying to help those affected. She accuses Harbourside Place LLC and Allied Management Associates of negligence for failing to maintain safe conditions at the site.
The plaintiff alleges that both defendants were aware or should have been aware of the unsafe conditions but failed to act accordingly. The complaint highlights several breaches of duty by the defendants, including failure to install necessary safety features like Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI), unauthorized replacement of electrical panels without permits, and allowing electrical current leaks from light fixtures in the fountain area. Furthermore, it states that these hazards were particularly dangerous due to their proximity to areas frequented by children.
Mhlakaza-Faust is seeking compensatory damages exceeding $50,000 for her physical injuries and emotional trauma. She demands judgment against both defendants for negligence and negligent infliction of emotional distress. Additionally, she reserves the right to pursue punitive damages upon meeting statutory requirements. Her legal representation argues that Harbourside Place LLC had non-delegable duties to ensure safety on its premises and failed significantly in this regard.
Representing Mhlakaza-Faust is Gregory Huber from Zele Huber Trial Attorneys P.A., located in Jupiter, Florida. The Case ID is: 502024CA009495XXXAMB Div: AJ.