A Gainesville resident has filed a lawsuit seeking damages for injuries sustained during an open house event in Palm Harbor, Florida. Christine W. Nortz, the plaintiff, filed the complaint on March 4, 2025, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County against defendants Declan Bergen and Nikita Scanlon.
The case centers around an incident that occurred on May 18, 2024, when Nortz attended an open house at a property located at 2920 Shannon Circle in Palm Harbor. The property was under the control and possession of Bergen and Scanlon at the time. According to the complaint, both defendants were responsible for maintaining a safe environment for invitees such as Nortz. However, it is alleged that they failed to do so by not addressing known hazards or adequately warning visitors about them.
Nortz claims she suffered significant injuries due to these hazardous conditions, leading to pain and suffering, disability, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, and loss of earnings. The lawsuit asserts that these injuries are permanent and will continue to affect her life.
In her complaint, Nortz accuses both Bergen and Scanlon of negligence. She alleges that they had a duty to ensure the safety of their premises but negligently failed by not fixing or warning about known dangers. As a result of this negligence, Nortz experienced bodily harm and its subsequent consequences.
The plaintiff is seeking judgment against both defendants for damages exceeding $50,000 exclusive of costs and interest. She requests compensation for her physical injuries as well as related expenses such as hospitalization and medical care. Additionally, she seeks relief for lost earnings and diminished earning capacity due to her injuries.
Representing Christine W. Nortz are attorneys Marko Nikitovic from Meldon Law along with Christopher Speziok and Carey Meldow. The case is being presided over by judges from the Circuit Court in Pinellas County under Case Number: 25-001019-CI.