Kansas City man sues Family Dollar following alleged injuries from roof collapse
By Nick Sloan
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KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KMBC) — A Kansas City man has filed a lawsuit against Family Dollar and a property management company, alleging he suffered serious injuries while trying to rescue others after the roof collapsed at a Kansas City store in July.
The petition, filed Sept. 26 in Jackson Count, names Family Dollar Inc., Family Dollar Stores of Missouri LLC, and Arthur Fels Company as defendants.
According to the lawsuit, Charles Ochlech was shopping at the Family Dollar at 3726 Broadway on July 27 when the store’s roof gave way, sending heavy debris crashing down on several customers.
Ochlech attempted to help trapped customers but says he was injured in the process.
The filing states Ochlech suffered permanent injuries to his neck, back, and legs, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and emotional distress.
He also claims he continues to face medical bills, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity.
The lawsuit argues the collapse was preventable.
It alleges the building was structurally unsound and that a support pillar damaged in 2016 had never been repaired.
The suit also claims employees and customers had reported roof problems before the collapse, but the store remained open.
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