California Family awarded $6.4M by a jury in 2024 after mother dies in Redding motel fire sparked by bread toaster in 2021.
A devastating 2021 fire at a Redding motel has resulted in a $6.4 million wrongful death lawsuit verdict, bringing some justice to the family of a woman who tragically lost her life due to alleged negligence and fire safety violations.
Redding Woman Dies in Sundial Lodge Fire During Project Roomkey Stay
On March 23, 2021, Janell Foster, a mother of four and Redding resident, was staying at the Sundial Lodge on Market Street as part of Project Roomkey—a state program that provided temporary housing to individuals at risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. That evening, a fire erupted in her room, reportedly started by a malfunctioning toaster.
By the time Redding Fire Department crews arrived, Foster’s room was engulfed in flames. Firefighters managed to pull her from the burning room and administered CPR, but despite their efforts, she died hours later at Mercy Medical Center due to severe burn injuries.
Lawsuit Alleges Motel Negligence and Lack of Smoke Detector
Foster’s family filed a wrongful death claim in Shasta County Superior Court against Mary Patel, owner of the Sundial Lodge. The lawsuit alleged negligence, specifically citing the absence of a working smoke detector in the room—an essential safety device that could have potentially saved Foster’s life.
The motel owners denied wrongdoing, stating that the room had a functioning smoke detector. However, key testimony during the trial contradicted that claim. Ryan Masterson, Redding’s Assistant Fire Marshal, testified that after investigating the scene, he could not locate a smoke detector in the room where the fire started.
Jury Awards $6.39 Million in Damages
After a six-week trial that began in early November, the jury returned a verdict on December 18, 2024, awarding Foster’s family $6.39 million in damages. The case was successfully argued by Brandon Storment and Catie Barr of Barr & Mudford, along with Anthony Garilli of Dreyer, Babich, Buccola, Wood & Campora.
“This verdict not only vindicates our client but also sends a powerful message about the importance of property owner accountability and fire safety compliance,” said attorney Brandon Storment.
Attorney Catie Barr added, “We are proud to have stood by this family and fought for justice. This result highlights the critical importance of enforcing motel safety standards and protecting vulnerable community members.”
Why Fire Safety and Legal Representation Matter
This tragic incident underscores the life-or-death consequences of proper fire prevention measures and functional smoke detectors in motels, hotels, and rental properties. When property owners fail to meet basic safety requirements, lives are put at risk—and they must be held accountable.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a fire accident, premises liability, or wrongful death due to negligence, don’t wait. Consult with experienced personal injury trial attorneys to explore your legal options and pursue the #AccessToJustice you deserve.
Source YAHOO NEWS
