PHOENIX, AZ – In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the city of Phoenix has agreed to pay a $2 million settlement to the family of a toddler who died following a seizure in 2022. The Cluckston family claims that Phoenix firefighters, called to the scene, dismissed the severity of the situation and refused to transport their son, Abraham, to the hospital.
According to court documents, the child’s mother was in distress when her two-year-old began experiencing a seizure and a fever. Despite her pleas to the emergency responders for immediate hospital transportation, the firefighters reportedly assured her that the situation was not critical, advising her to administer over-the-counter medications like Tylenol and ibuprofen.
Tragically, less than six hours after following the firefighters’ guidance, Abraham was found unresponsive. A second 911 call resulted in a rushed trip to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, but medical personnel were unable to save him.
The Cluckston family’s attorney, Brian Slack, filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city and its fire department, emphasizing that the firefighters’ dismissive response and advice contributed to the child’s untimely death. The lawsuit argued that the emergency responders’ decision-making process was flawed, leading to preventable consequences.
In response to the lawsuit, the Phoenix City Council has approved a $2 million settlement. However, the family remains vocal about the need for systemic changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future. They are calling for policy reforms and improved training for emergency responders to ensure that no other family experiences such a devastating loss.
The city of Phoenix has expressed condolences to the Cluckston family and acknowledged the need for change. An internal review has been conducted, and steps have been taken to enhance training and protocols for emergency response teams. The city emphasized its commitment to safeguarding the community and preventing future incidents.
While the settlement offers some form of resolution, the Cluckston family is determined to push for reforms that prioritize the health and safety of Phoenix’s residents. Their hope is that their loss will lead to meaningful changes that protect others from similar heartache.