Robert P. Matusz v. Wellmore Behavioral Health, Inc

Case Background

The Fire negligence lawsuit was filed on November 9, 2020, by Plaintiff Robert P. Matusz in the Connecticut State, Superior Court of Waterbury Division (Case number: UWY-CV20-6057506-S) and presided over by Judge Robert D. Andrea.

Cause

Robert P. Matusz owned property at 150-152 Meadow Street in Naugatuck, Connecticut. He leased the first floor to Wellmore Behavioral Health, Inc., whose corporate headquarters were located in Waterbury, Connecticut. Joyce A. Moody, the first cousin and only surviving heir of Matusz's wife, Angela R. Matusz, lived in the second-floor apartment. On June 1, 2019, at approximately 11:24 AM, Wellmore employees noticed a smoke odor emanating from a wall in their leased space. The Naugatuck Fire Department responded and filed an incident report, noting a slight odor of burning wires but found no immediate danger. They advised unplugging a new copier and calling for maintenance. The next day, June 2, 2019, at approximately 10:00 PM, a major fire broke out at the property, causing significant damage to the building and ultimately resulting in Joyce Moody's death. Matusz alleged that Wellmore installed the new copier without proper permission or electrical modifications. He further claimed that Wellmore failed to adequately address the initial smoke incident and did not promptly inform him of the situation. Matusz learned about the fire from his wife, who noticed it while driving by the property.

Injuries

Joyce Moody suffered smoke exposure and hypoxia during the fire, which led to her developing a stroke. She subsequently died as a result of these complications. Robert Matusz experienced severe emotional distress, including great shock, pain, and anguish. He developed a fear for his present and future well-being, as well as his life itself, leading to a significant loss in his quality of life.

Damages