In a tragic case that underscores the critical importance of hospital safety, a wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against two prominent healthcare providers. Ronsha Brown, acting as the personal representative for the estate of Brenda Kay Zeigler, filed the complaint on October 31, 2024, in the Circuit Court for Pinellas County, Florida. The defendants named in this suit are St. Anthony’s Hospital, Inc., and BayCare Health System, Inc.
The lawsuit arises from an incident that occurred at St. Anthony’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida. According to the complaint, Brenda Kay Zeigler was admitted as an inpatient on July 12, 2024. On July 29, 2024, while attempting to use a bedside commode provided by the hospital staff, Zeigler suffered a catastrophic fall due to an unstable commode on slippery flooring. This fall resulted in severe head injuries leading to her death later that morning. The plaintiff alleges negligence on part of both St. Anthony’s Hospital and BayCare Health System for failing to provide safe facilities and equipment necessary for patient care.
Ronsha Brown asserts that both defendants had a duty to maintain their premises safely and were negligent in allowing hazardous conditions to exist. Specifically highlighted is the failure to ensure non-slip characteristics on hospital room floors and providing stable bedside commodes for patients like Ms. Zeigler who required assistance with mobility. The complaint further accuses the hospitals of not warning patients about these dangerous conditions despite having knowledge or constructive knowledge of such risks.
The plaintiff seeks damages exceeding $50,000 exclusive of interest and costs under Chapter 768 of Florida Statutes which includes compensation for pre-death pain and suffering endured by Ms. Zeigler; loss of support and services; medical expenses; funeral costs; and emotional distress experienced by surviving family members including her children Rodderick Brown and Shanta Wilkes.
Representing Ronsha Brown is attorney Wesley T. Straw along with Matthew D. Emerson from Emerson Straw PL based in St. Petersburg, Florida. The case is presided over by Judge Ken Burke under Case Number: 24-004774-ClI.