Facts

Victims of an apartment fire sued the building's owner, Huck Rorick; the property manager, Sandy Hryciuk; Hryciuk's business, Asset Property Management; and April Strongarone, a tenant in the apartment unit where the fire allegedly started. Defendants denied any negligence.

PLAINTIFFS' CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiffs contended that Strongarone was negligent in starting and/or controlling the initial fire, which was allegedly caused by a malfunctioning wall heater. Plaintiffs also contended that the other defendants were negligent in failing to maintain the property, which created a dangerous condition and caused the fire to spread. Further, that their negligence constituted a breach of the lease.

Damages

Plaintiffs sought recovery for property damages that were destroyed by the fire. Each claimed $2,800 in medical bills and $3,000 in motel expenses. One claimed $4,000 in lost wages.

Injuries

Several plaintiffs claimed back and neck injuries from running from the fire, others suffered from shock in seeing their belongings burn, causing emotional distress.

Result

The jury found Rorick, Hryciuk, and Asset Proeprty 70 percent liable for the damages and Strongarone 30 percent negligent. The plaintiffs were awarded $123,962 in total damages, which were split up accordingly.

Other Information

April Strongarone is in pro per.

Deliberation

1.5 days

Poll

11-1 (liability)

Length

10 days