66.1 F
California, US
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
213-314-4999
Home Blog Page 5

Illegal Fireworks Explosion In Honolulu Kills 4 and Injures At Least 20 Others

By
The Fearless Advocate Team
0
fireworks

Update: A 3 year-old victim, Cassius Ramos-Benigno, has been identified as the fourth fatality from this incident.

Just before midnight, a New Year’s Eve fireworks explosion in Honolulu led to the death of at least three people, and critically injured over 20 other individuals, including children. The three individuals who died have been identified as 23 year-old Jennifer Van, 58 year-old Nelie Ibarra, and 61 year-old Carmelita Benigno.

According to authorities, the incident was caused by a fireworks “cake” containing around 50 illegal aerial rockets, which tipped over and fired into a carport that contained more fireworks, setting them off as well.

The explosion caused at least 20 nearby individuals to suffer serious injuries with burns covering much of their bodies. A few burned individuals, identified as Abbey, Tommy, Melissa and Kevin, and Charmaine Benigno, have had friends and family set up GoFundMe accounts to support them in their recovery.

According to family members, Abbey’s body is nearly 70% burned, and she will be transferred to a burn facility in Arizona.

Tommy’s loved ones say he is more than 60% burned and will also be transferred to a burn facility in Arizona.

Melissa and Kevin, a married couple with a 3-month-old son, were both severely burned. Kevin sustained grave injuries and is hospitalized while Melissa will be flown to the mainland for medical care.

Charmaine Benigno, a mother of two young boys, was injured in the explosion and requires extensive medical care.

The Dangers of Illegal Aerial Fireworks

Aerial fireworks in Hawaii have been banned, statewide for 25 years, unless they are conducted as official public displays.

Fireworks, especially illegal or improperly handled ones, can pose significant dangers that lead to life-altering injuries, property destruction, and loss of life. The tragic explosion in Honolulu on New Year’s Eve underscores these risks, including:

  • Risk of severe injuries – fireworks can lead to serious burns and loss of extremities and limbs
  • Loss of life – huge explosions caused by the mishandling of fireworks can lead to death, as seen in the tragic New Year’s Eve event
  • Fire hazards – fireworks are highly flammable, and an accidental ignition can cause devastating chain reactions and may lead to house fires and wildfires
  • Public safety risks – due to their explosive nature, fireworks put not only those who are handling them at risk but those nearby them at risk of injury also

“No family should have to endure the pain caused by someone else’s negligence when it comes to illegal fireworks,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber, “The lives of all involved in this tragic incident will be forever changed.

“The victims and their families deserve justice and could consider contacting a personal injury law firm to learn more about their options.”

Legal Action Available to Victims and Their Families

Victims of fireworks accidents may have legal recourse, depending on the details of the incident uncovered by officials you may be able to pursue the following legal action:

  • Personal injury claims – for those who suffered burns, disfigurement, or other injuries
  • Wrongful death claims – for the families who lost their loved ones in the incident

Damages for these claims may include compensation for:

  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Lost wages
  • Medical bills
  • Ongoing medical treatment
  • Funeral and burial expenses, in cases of wrongful death
  • Emotional turmoil
  • And more

If you have lost a loved one in a firework explosion or have been injured in one, call Singleton Schreiber today to learn more about your options. Call us at (808) 582-8062 or email us at info@singletonschreiber.com to schedule your free consultation.

Downed Powerline in Vancouver WA Injures Four, Including Three Firefighters, and Leaves One Civilian In Critical Condition

By
The Fearless Advocate Team
0
Downed Powerline in Vancouver WA Injures Four

Downed Powerline in Vancouver WA Injures FourFriday night on December 28, a large powerline fell to the ground, starting several fires in Vancouver, WA, injuring four people, including three firefighters. 

Around 9 pm fire crews were dispatched to a home near Ash Street and East Evergreen Boulevard in Vancouver with reports of a downed powerline. Eleven units responded to the call, and when they arrived they found several ground fires, one RV ablaze, and one victim unable to move who was calling for help. 

Three firefighters attempted to reach the victim who was on the ground outside of an RV, but they were unable to reach them because the ground and surrounding structures were being charged with high voltage power and were delivering shocks to them. The victim calling out for help was also being shocked. 

Eventually, crews were able to get the victim to an ambulance to administer emergency medical treatment before transporting them to the hospital. The victim was in critical condition.

Additionally, three firefighters were taken to the hospital for treatment. Two were released back to duty while the other was kept for overnight observation. 

A spokesperson for Vancouver Fire said about the fire that “there were several spot fires in front of the house where the line had touched the ground and energized the ground around it. There were a couple of houses that were involved, a couple of lots because the line was draping across several different types of things like trees and the RV.” 

Fire crews were then able to put out the ground fires, the RV fire, and the fire inside the main house once Clarke Public Utilities shut off power to the entire neighborhood. 

Raymon Egan, Vancouver Fire Captain, told news reporters that they do not know what caused the line to drop, and the Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office will continue to investigate the incident. 

Understanding the Hazards Posed by Downed Powerlines

The dangers associated with downed powerlines extend far beyond their immediate surroundings, creating hazardous conditions that can impact entire communities. These risks underscore the critical importance of proactive measures that need to be taken to prevent powerline failures and ensure public safety. 

“Downed powerlines pose a significant threat to public safety, especially when they energize nearby structures or the ground. In addition to starting fires, they can deliver dangerous electric shocks to anyone in the vicinity, making rescue and firefighting efforts incredibly risky,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber who has extensive experience representing clients suing utility companies for damages they’ve caused. 

“Utility companies play a crucial role in maintaining powerline safety and ensuring that their infrastructure is properly inspected and maintained to prevent incidents like this. Their dedication and prompt action to quickly address and repair damaged lines is essential to reducing risks to the public and emergency responders.” 

Singleton Schreiber is currently litigating two suits in Washington state. One is a suit against Power & Light Company for a property owner who suffered damages from the Gray Fire, which broke out in August 2023. The Gray fire scorched over 10,000 acres and displaced at least 5,000 residents. The second is a legal case against BNSF Railway for the Tunnel Five fires from July 2023.

If you or a loved one have been injured or lost property due to a downed powerline, contact Singleton Schreiber today to learn how we may be able to help you. Call us at (619) 771-3473 or email us at info@singletonschreiber.com to schedule your free consultation. 

Steven Weatherford Helps His Family Escape Their Burning Home Before Dying of Smoke Inhalation in Oakland, CA

By
The Fearless Advocate Team
0
Steven Weatherford Helps His Family Escape Their Burning Home

Steven Weatherford Helps His Family Escape Their Burning HomeEarly on Christmas morning, Steven Weatherford and his brother, Jerry Weatherford, were sleeping in the living room of their childhood home when a fire broke out, ultimately leading to Steven’s death.

Around 6:30 am Jerry awoke to see smoke billowing out from underneath the TV, and within seconds the entire wall was on fire, filling the house with smoke. Struggling to breathe, Jerry ran out of the house, yelling to alert the rest of the family. 

Steven then went up to the second floor where his father and aunts were sleeping to wake them and help them escape the blaze. Both aunts were able to get downstairs and out the backdoor, while his father, unable to get down the stairs, escaped through a bedroom window. Unfortunately, Steven never emerged from the house. 

Authorities informed the Weatherford family that Steven died of smoke inhalation. The Oakland Fire Department is conducting an investigation to determine what caused the fire.

Common Causes of House Fires

Unfortunately, house fires are common occurrences in the United States. According to the Red Cross, the number of house fires increases in the fall and winter, peaking in December and January. What tends to cause this increase in fires?

  • Use of heating appliances – furnaces and space heaters may malfunction if not properly maintained and can cause fires
  • Holiday decorations – Christmas lights, candles, and other holiday decorations can ignite if placed too close to flammable materials
  • Cooking – unattended stoves or ovens, grease fires, and mishandling of flammable materials in the kitchen can ignite fires
  • Electrical issues – faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, and damaged cords can spark and cause fires

“Steven Weatherford’s heroic actions on Christmas morning show the incredible love and selflessness he had for his family, making his loss even more heartbreaking,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber, “As an attorney who has worked with families impacted by tragic house fires, I know how devastating these events can be, not only due to the lives lost but also for the loved ones left behind to pick up the pieces. 

“My heart goes out to the Weatherford family during this unimaginable time, and I encourage anyone affected by similar tragedies to seek the support and guidance they need to begin the journey toward justice.”

Legal Options Available to Victims of House Fires

Victims of house fires may face significant challenges, including medical expenses, property damage, emotional trauma, and more. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the fire, those affected may have several legal options to explore, including:

  • Personal injury claim – if the fire was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as a landlord failing to conduct regular maintenance or a neighbor’s unsafe actions
  • Wrongful death claim – if the fire was caused by another’s careless, reckless, or negligent actions and ultimately caused the death of a loved one
  • Product liability claim – if a defective appliance, heating system, or electrical device contributed to the fire, victims may have a claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer of the faulty product
  • And more

Filing a claim may allow victims to obtain compensation for medical bills, lost property, emotional distress, and temporary housing costs, and in cases of wrongful death, they can get compensation to cover funeral and burial expenses, and more. 

If you have been affected by a house fire or have tragically lost a loved one in a fire, contact Singleton Schreiber today by calling (619) 771-3473 or emailing info@singletonschreiber.com to schedule your free consultation. 

Mobile Home Fire in Edison, CA Leaves Two Women Dead

By
The Fearless Advocate Team
0
Mobile Home Fire in Edison, CA Leaves Two Women Dead

Early in the morning on Sunday, December 8, 2024, a mobile home fire broke out in Edison, California, causing the death of two women. 

The fire occurred around 3 am in the small community of Edison, just east of Bakersfield. The fire destroyed three mobile homes. According to neighbors, the fire appeared to originate from the middle trailer and then spread to the two other trailers on either side. 

Neighbors told news crews that the fire spread quickly. The first trailer that burned was located right next to the electricity box, so the fire caused sparks and eventually left the mobile home park without electricity. 

Ramon Jaracuaro, a neighbor who lives right in front of the mobile homes that burned told news crews that in the three years he has lived in the community it has only been inspected once. 

Officials have not released further information on the fire at this time, and have yet to identify the two women who died in the fire. 

What Makes Fires in Mobile Home Parks Dangerous

Fires in mobile homes and mobile home parks can be devastating due to the unique vulnerabilities of these structures. Mobile homes are often constructed with lightweight materials that burn more quickly than traditional homes. Additionally, they are usually built close together, which increases the likelihood of fires spreading rapidly from one home to the next, as seen in the tragic fire in Edison this past weekend. 

Common causes that contribute to sparking fires in mobile homes and parks may include:

  • Electrical issues: faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or aging electrical systems are common causes of mobile home fires. The proximity of electrical components to flammable material can quickly turn a small spark into a large fire. 
  • Heating equipment malfunctions: mobile homes often rely on space heaters, wood stoves, or older HVAC systems, which can malfunction or ignite nearby combustible materials. 
  • Neglected maintenance: lack of regular inspections and maintenance, such as checking for leaks in gas lines, or ensuring electrical systems are up to code, can increase fire risk in mobile home parks. 
  • And more

“The loss of life and homes in the incident that occurred in Edison on Sunday morning is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by fires in mobile home communities,” says managing partner Gerald Singleton, of Singleton Schreiber, “The families who lost their loved ones and homes deserve justice and could consider contacting experienced attorneys like us to learn more about their options in the aftermath of this devastating fire. We’ve helped guide numerous families through tragedies similar to this one.”

Legal Options Available to Victims Affected by Mobile Home Fires

Victims of mobile home fires and their families may have legal recourse to seek compensation for the losses they experienced due to the fire. Depending on the circumstances, potential claims may include: 

  • Negligence claims: if the fire was caused by improper maintenance, faulty wiring, or another preventable hazard, victims may file a negligence claim against the property owner, management company, or others responsible for the safety of the mobile home park.
  • Wrongful death claims: families of individuals who lose their lives in mobile home fires may file wrongful death lawsuits to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, emotional suffering, and more. 

If you have been affected by a mobile home fire or tragically lost a loved one in a mobile home fire, contact Singleton Schreiber to learn how we may be able to help. Call us today at (619) 771-3473 or email us at info@singletonschreiber.com to schedule your free initial consultation today. 

Early Morning Hit and Run in Point Loma Leaves Jogger, Michael Casey Ellis, Dead

By
The Fearless Advocate Team
0
Early Morning Hit and Run in Point Loma

Around 5 am on Thursday, December 5, 2024, a fatal collision between a car and a jogger occurred, leaving the jogger, Michael Casey Ellis, dead at the scene. The accident occurred in the 4500 block of Nimitz Boulevard in Point Loma, San Diego. 

Just before the accident, Ellis was jogging heading west on Point Loma Boulevard, as he crossed Nimitz Boulevard a BMW sedan, traveling south on Nimitz Boulevard struck him. A witness called 911 as the BMW did not stop at the scene to render aid. When authorities arrived on the scene Ellis was pronounced dead by paramedics.   

The Dangers of Vehicle vs Pedestrian Accidents in San Diego

Vehicle vs pedestrian collisions are among the most severe types of crashes that occur due to the vulnerability of pedestrians. Pedestrians lack the physical protection afforded to vehicle occupants, and thus are much more likely to suffer fatal injuries, especially in a collision with a vehicle. 

Intersections, even those with clear signage and signals, are hotspots for these types of tragic incidents. Some common causes of vehicle vs pedestrian accidents include:

  • Distracted driving: if a driver is engaging in distracting activities, such as using their phone, eating, or talking to passengers, among other activities, they may fail to notice pedestrians crossing the road 
  • Speeding: if a driver is traveling at excessive speed their reaction time is reduced should they need to stop quickly 
  • Low visibility: factors that contribute to poor lighting conditions such as the early morning or late night, weather such as fog or rain, can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians
  • Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drug impairment can significantly impair a driver’s ability to react and make safe decisions

Each of these factors, and more, can contribute to tragic outcomes like the one involving Michael Casey Ellis, unfortunately, in the incident that killed Mr. Ellis, the driver fled the scene, making the incident a fatal hit and run. Some reasons a driver may flee the scene include:

  • Fear of legal consequences
  • Driving under the influence
  • Unlicensed drivers
  • Outstanding warrants
  • Lack of insurance
  • And more

“Accidents like the one that caused the death of Michael Casey Ellis highlight the devastating consequences of negligent or reckless driving, especially when the driver flees the scene,” says Attorney Brett Schreiber of Singleton Schreiber, “Every pedestrian deserves to feel safe walking or jogging in their community. Our hearts go out to the Ellis family and we trust the San Diego Police Department will do everything possible to find and hold accountable the responsible driver.” 

Legal Options for the Victim’s Family

After a fatal hit-and-run accident, the victim’s family may be left with medical bills, lost income, funeral and burial expenses, and more. If the responsible driver can be found and identified, the victim’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim to obtain compensation for their losses. 

If you’ve lost a loved one in a hit-and-run accident, contact Singleton Schreiber today to learn more about your options. Call us at (619) 771-3473 or email info@singletonschreiber.com to get started today and schedule your free consultation. 

James Osmus, 60-Year-Old San Diego Resident, Identified as Bicyclist Who Died in Black Mountain Ranch Collision

By
The Fearless Advocate Team
0
James Osmus Identified as Bicyclist Who Died in Black Mountain Ranch Collision

Friday, November 22, around 6:50 pm the San Diego Police Department, was notified of a collision between a Volkswagen car and a bicyclist on Camino Del Sur in the San Diego neighborhood of Black Mountain Ranch, which ultimately killed the bicyclist, who was later identified as 60-year-old James Osmus. 

The collision occurred when the Volkswagen driver, a 50-year-old woman, traveling in the right-hand lane of Camino Del Sur, suddenly veered into the bike lane as she crossed the intersection of Casey Glen and struck Osmus. When police arrived, Osmus was pronounced dead at the scene.

At this time, the reason for the driver veering into the bike lane is unknown. Police have determined that alcohol was not a factor in the collision and officials will continue to investigate the details of this fatal collision. 

The Dangers of Car vs. Pedestrian and Bicyclist Collisions

Car vs. pedestrian or bicyclist collisions often have devastating outcomes due to the disparity in size, weight, and speed between vehicles and the vulnerability of pedestrians and bicyclists. Unlike vehicle occupants, bicyclists and pedestrians have little to no protection, leaving them vulnerable to the full force of impact. Even at lower speeds, collisions can result in life-altering consequences, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and in some cases, fatalities. The risk of serious harm increases significantly when drivers fail to remain vigilant, especially in areas where bicycles and vehicles share the road.

Intersections, like where Friday’s incident occurred, are particularly dangerous. Drivers often fail to yield, make abrupt maneuvers, are driving while distracted, or fail to notice cyclists in designated bike lanes. These risks underscore the need for brightened awareness and adherence to traffic laws, as well as infrastructure improvements like protected bike lanes to enhance safety for all road users. 

“The loss of life in a bicycling accident is an unimaginable tragedy,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber personal injury law firm, “every day, cyclists trust that drivers will respect their right to the road, yet accidents like this remind us how quickly lives can be forever changed and lost. Our thoughts are with Mr. Osmus’s family during this incredibly difficult time.” 

Legal Options for Collision Victims and Their Families

When a loved one dies in a collision, families face many unexpected burdens such as heartbreak, financial hurdles, and more. If evidence suggests that the driver’s negligence contributed to the accident, families may have the right to seek compensation through a wrongful death claim. This legal option may allow the family to obtain some financial relief by allowing them to receive compensation for the following:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Lost income or benefits
  • Loss of companionship
  • And more

If you have lost a loved one due to a bicycle vs car collision, call Singleton Schreiber today to get started with their team of experienced personal injury lawyers. Contact us by calling (619) 771-3473 or by emailing us at info@singletonschreiber.com to learn more about how we may be able to help. 

1...456...120Page 5 of 120

Recent Posts

Most Popular

Eden, NC Work Zone Accident

Four Utility Workers, Doug Sides, Madison Carter, Will Evans, and Matthew Lockwood Killed in...

A tragic work zone crash in Eden, North Carolina, claimed the lives of four utility workers on April 24, 2025. Authorities say a City...
Dana Point Single Vehicle Crash

Tragic Dana Point Single Vehicle Crash Claims Life of Teen Driver, Rebecca Cespedes, and...

A devastating single-vehicle accident in Dana Point, California, claimed the life of a high school student, Rebecca Cespedes, and left five of her classmates...
Four Hospitalized After Head-On Crash on Hana Highway

Four Hospitalized After Head-On Crash on Hana Highway

A devastating head-on collision on Maui’s Hana Highway left four people hospitalized on the afternoon of Friday, May 2, 2025. The crash occurred around...
Emery Chalekian Fatally Struck in Encinitas Crosswalk Accident

12-Year-Old Emery Chalekian Fatally Struck in Encinitas Crosswalk Accident

A devastating accident on Friday, April 25, claimed the life of 12-year-old Emery Chalekian after she was struck by a vehicle while crossing the...
Fatal Hit-and-Run Near Valley View Casino Leaves Elias Arenas Dead

Fatal Hit-and-Run Near Valley View Casino Leaves Elias Arenas Dead, Suspect Arrested

A tragic hit-and-run incident in Valley Center has left the family of 25-year-old Elias Arenas grieving. On Thursday night, April 17, 2025, Arenas was...

Contact Us Today

"*" indicates required fields

* required fields
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Popular Topics

Most Viewed

Trending Now

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING MATERIAL. In some jurisdictions, content found on this website may constitute as attorney advertising. The content provided on this website has been created for informational purposes only and should NOT be interpreted as legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar result or predict the outcome of any future case. Every case is different. You should speak with a licensed attorney about your particular case. By accessing this website, you are not establishing an attorney-client relationship. Gerald Singleton, Managing Partner, is responsible for this advertising | Brett Schreiber is a licensed Hawaii attorney who is responsible for this attorney advertising material. Headquarters: 591 Camino de la Reina, Suite 1025, San Diego CA 92108

© Copyright 2024 - thefearlessadvocate.com | Contact