An Anderson, Indiana, family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Madison County, accusing a caregiver and the care agency of fatal negligence in the death of their 24-year-old daughter. Families of vulnerable adults place enormous trust in professional caregivers. When that trust is broken, the consequences can be tragic.
In Indiana and across the country, home-based care programs serve thousands of people with disabilities, medical conditions, or age-related challenges. Many families depend on these services to provide safety and support when they can’t be present themselves. However, when caregiver negligence leads to a preventable death, families are often left with heartbreak, unanswered questions, and a desperate need for accountability.
If you’ve experienced a similar loss and are questioning whether a caregiver’s actions contributed to a loved one’s death, it may be time to speak with an attorney. The wrongful death lawyers at Young, Reverman & Bolotin represent families throughout Indiana. Our team can help you understand your legal options and fight for accountability. Call us today at 513-400-0000 for a free initial consultation.
Table of Contents
What Happened?
The woman, who was autistic, nonverbal, and had multiple seizure disorders, lived at home with her parents in Anderson, Indiana. She required constant supervision, and to ensure her safety, the family had installed cameras throughout their home. On July 20, 2023, those cameras recorded a disturbing incident.
According to the footage, a caregiver repeatedly ordered her to eat pizza, telling her to “open” and “eat it,” even as she appeared to gag and resist. Despite obvious signs of distress, the caregiver continued the feeding. When she began to choke, the caregiver waited several minutes before calling 911.
First responders arrived to find the woman unconscious. They used a tool to remove food lodged in her throat. She was transported to a hospital, but never regained consciousness. She passed away four days later.
Allegations of Negligence and Systemic Failure
The family of the decedent in the Anderson case has filed a wrongful death case against the caregiver, as well as her employer, Assured Residential and Consulting LLC. The lawsuit accuses both parties of gross negligence and failure to follow care protocols, including:
- Failure to recognize and respond to clear signs of choking and distress
- Ignoring or violating the individual’s care plan and dietary needs
- Delayed emergency response that may have contributed to the fatal outcome
- Hiring and assigning a caregiver without conducting proper background checks or providing appropriate training
Reports revealed that the caregiver had a prior theft conviction in 2021, which should have disqualified her under Indiana guidelines. The lawsuit claims the agency neglected to perform due diligence and failed to equip staff with the training needed to safely care for individuals with special needs.
Following the incident, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) conducted an investigation. The agency cited the care provider for violations including neglect, verbal abuse, inadequate training, and improper hiring practices. The agency was placed on probation and required to make corrections.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Indiana
Wrongful death occurs when someone dies as a result of another person’s carelessness, recklessness, or misconduct. Indiana law allows certain surviving relatives to pursue compensation and accountability through civil litigation.
Because the woman was an unmarried adult with no dependents, the Adult Wrongful Death Act applies. This law permits surviving parents to file a claim under specific conditions.
Compensation in such cases may cover:
- Medical bills related to the final injury or illness
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of companionship and love
- Legal expenses incurred in pursuing the claim
Indiana law places limits on some types of damages in wrongful death cases, particularly when medical negligence is involved. Families must also act within two years of the date of death to preserve their legal rights.
Why Families Turn to the Courts After a Caregiving Tragedy
Wrongful death lawsuits are often about more than financial compensation. For many families, pursuing legal action is a way to:
- Uncover the full truth about what happened
- Ensure those responsible are held accountable
- Push for stronger oversight and safer care practices
- Prevent similar incidents from harming others
When a caregiving failure results in death, legal action may be the only avenue for transparency, reform, and justice.
Legal Responsibility in Wrongful Death Cases
Accountability in wrongful death cases can extend beyond the person directly involved. Depending on the circumstances, liability may fall on:
- Individual caregivers who acted negligently or recklessly
- Care agencies that failed to screen, train, or supervise their employees
- Oversight bodies or contracting organizations that failed to enforce safety standards
In this case, both the caregiver and the agency are named in the lawsuit, and regulatory authorities have confirmed major violations in hiring and care practices.
What Families Should Do If Negligence Is Suspected
If you believe a loved one’s death was caused by caregiver negligence, quick and careful action is essential:
Secure Documentation
Request and preserve care records, emergency response logs, and any surveillance footage.
Gather Communications
Save emails, texts, and notes that reflect concerns or unusual events.
Consult a Lawyer
A Lawrenceburg, Indiana injury lawyer can assess the facts, begin an investigation, and advise you on legal strategy.
Avoid Direct Contact With the Care Agency or Their Insurer
Statements made in the aftermath may be used to limit liability.
Act Within the Deadline
Indiana law gives you two years from the date of death to file a claim.
Finding Justice Through Legal Action
When a caregiver’s negligence ends a life, families deserve answers. Indiana’s wrongful death laws provide a way to seek accountability, compensation, and reform. Legal action may help prevent the same mistakes from being repeated in another home, with another loved one.
If your loved one died due to caregiver neglect or misconduct, the wrongful death attorneys at Young, Reverman & Bolotin are here to help. We handle cases across Indiana and fight to hold negligent parties accountable. Contact our office today at 513-400-0000 to schedule a free consultation.
