Landlord sued after woman falls to her death from window

A New Orleans family is suing their landlord after the family's mother fell to her death from an open window.

Jonathan Emerson filed suit in the Orleans Parish Civil District Court on behalf of himself and his daughter on Dec. 20 against Civic Lofts at 547 Baronne Street.

The suit claims Emerson's wife, Sarah Emerson, was seated at a windowsill facing Baronne Street when she lost her balance and fell to the street below. Responding medical and law enforcement officials who responded declared her dead at the scene.

The suit claims the condition of the building was unreasonably dangerous and the property owners had a responsibility to warn their tenants of the low windows.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for the woman's survivors.

Jonathan Emerson filed the suit himself.

The case has been assigned to Division H Judge Michael G. Bagneris.

Case number 2011-13049