Woman who fell on moving escalator after purse was caught on object sues

GRETNA – A St. John the Baptist Parish woman is sung a department store for injuries she claims to have received in an escalator incident.

Shirley Mason filed suit against Dillard Department Stores Inc. and Higbee Lancoms LP in the 24th Judicial District Court on April 19.

Mason claims that on April 26, 2012 she was a customer at the Dillard’s department store located at 3301 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie when the purse she was carrying became stuck on a piece of plexiglass affixed to an escalator and she was pulled backwards and fell onto the escalator. The plaintiff alleges the escalator stopped automatically and store personnel helped her stand up. Mason asserts that she received severe injuries to her neck, back, shoulder and arm in the incident some of which required medical treatment.

The defendant is accused of negligence, causing an unreasonable and dangerous condition by placing the plexiglass in close proximity to the escalator and allowing a dangerous condition to exist.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain and suffering, mental pain and suffering, medical expenses and loss of enjoyment of life.

Mason is represented by Blaine M. Hebert of Marrero-based Hebert Law Firm LLC.

The case has been assigned to Division K Judge Ellen Shirer Kovach.

Case no. 726-170.