On a warm summer day in July of 2017, two teenage boys disappeared after setting out on a small fishing boat in the Jupiter Inlet of Florida. Perry Cohen and Austin Stephanos, both fourteen, made national headlines after they went missing, their boat being discovered 100 miles from Bermuda.
Now, the family of Perry Cohen is suing the mother, father and grandfather of Austin Stephanos with the belief that they caused the wrongful death of their son.
The Investigation
The Cohen family’s wrongful death lawsuit is not being filed without its share of evidence. A previous investigation by law enforcement found that Austin Stephanos’ mother showed an “egregious lack of judgment and failure to execute due care” by allowing the two boys to take a small boat out into the water without adult supervision. The boat lacked both safety and emergency communication equipment.
Additionally, there was a lack of communication between the two families after the boys’ disappearance.
Attorney Guy Rubin stated on behalf of the Cohen family that “this lawsuit is about truth, accountability and justice…Perry’s family cannot just move on, put this behind them or let it go.”
What is Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death lawsuit can be filed when the someone’s negligence causes the death of a loved one.
The Cohen family, for example, believes that the Stephanos family’s negligent actions are to blame for the disappearance and presumed death of the two boys. For this reason, they have decided on a wrongful death lawsuit.
Wrongful death lawsuits can only be filed by the deceased’s spouse, children, parents or anyone dependent upon the deceased. In addition, wrongful death lawsuits often have a strict statute of limitations.
What’s Next?
The fate of this wrongful death suit has yet to be determined. However, the Cohen family filed a separate lawsuit in 2016 regarding Austin Stephanos’ iPhone, which was found on the recovered boat. The Cohen’s sued in an attempt to have the phone given to investigators; however, since criminal activity was unlikely, the phone went back to the Stephanos’ family.
If you and your family are facing the tragic death of a loved one caused by negligence, compensation is likely far from your mind. However, speaking to an attorney can help you understand your financial options and legal rights.
The Tampa personal injury attorneys at Lorenzo & Lorenzo understand the ins and outs of wrongful death cases, and we’re prepared to fight for your family. Contact us today for a free consultation.
