In a dramatic legal turn, a tenant has filed a lawsuit against her landlord and an unknown apartment manager, alleging negligence that led to serious injuries. Lashawn Smith initiated the complaint on May 1, 2025, in the Circuit Court of the 6th Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, targeting Lurin Real Estate Holdings LXIV, LLC and an unnamed apartment manager.
The case revolves around an incident that occurred on August 29, 2024. Lashawn Smith was residing at The Morgan Apartments in St. Petersburg when she slipped and fell due to water left on the floor by her neighbor's leaking water heater. This hazardous condition was allegedly known or should have been known by the defendants prior to Smith's accident. According to the complaint, Lurin Real Estate Holdings LXIV, LLC is responsible for managing and leasing these apartments and failed in their duty to maintain a safe environment for tenants like Smith.
Smith's legal representation argues that the defendants had both actual and constructive knowledge of the dangerous conditions within the apartment complex. The complaint outlines several breaches of duty by Lurin Real Estate Holdings LXIV, LLC and its staff: failing to maintain safe premises free from slipping hazards; neglecting necessary inspections; inadequate personnel and equipment to address maintenance issues; and failing to warn residents about potential dangers. As a result of these alleged failures, Smith sustained significant injuries affecting her body and extremities, leading to medical expenses, pain and suffering, permanent bodily injury, loss of enjoyment of life, as well as lost wages and earning capacity.
The plaintiff seeks judgment exceeding $50,001 for damages incurred due to this negligence. Additionally, Smith demands a jury trial for all issues that can be rightfully adjudicated by such means. The filing emphasizes that while $50,001 is stated for jurisdictional purposes only as per Florida Supreme Court requirements for data collection purposes—the actual claim value will be determined by a fair jury assessment.
Representing Lashawn Smith is attorney Blake R. Carl from Morgan & Morgan P.A., located in St. Petersburg. The case is presided over under Case Number 25-0023 12-CI in Pinellas County’s judicial system.