Shirley Carter has taken legal action against two companies, accusing them of negligence that led to significant property damage and personal injuries. On April 24, 2025, Shirley Carter filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana against Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) and Davey Resource Group, Inc.
The lawsuit stems from an incident on August 19, 2024, when a tree fell on Carter's home during a storm. The tree had been marked for removal by SWEPCO and its subcontractor, Davey Resource Group, approximately a year prior due to its dangerous condition. However, the tree was never removed. As a result of the fallen tree, Carter's house became uninhabitable, and she suffered personal injuries requiring medical attention. "The falling tree caused significant damage to Ms. Carter's house," the complaint states, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
Carter alleges that both SWEPCO and Davey Resource Group failed in their duty to maintain safety standards by not removing the hazardous trees in a timely manner. The complaint details multiple failures on part of the defendants: failing to inspect and remove dangerous trees near utility lines and poles; not training employees adequately to handle such tasks; and neglecting their responsibility to prevent foreseeable harm from falling trees. These actions are claimed to have directly resulted in Carter's injuries and property loss.
In her plea for justice, Shirley Carter seeks compensatory damages for her losses including repair costs for her home, medical expenses due to her injuries, pain and suffering endured as a result of this ordeal, as well as other related costs. She also requests pre-judgment and post-judgment interest along with any additional relief deemed appropriate by the court.
Representing Shirley Carter is attorney Fred A. Pharis from Pharis Law Offices located in Alexandria, Louisiana. The case is presided over under Case ID 1:25-cv-00547 in the Western District of Louisiana.