Suit alleges negligence by YMHA

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — A resident of Struthers Manor has sued the Youngstown Metropolitan Housing Authority, claiming she was injured in a fall caused by the authority’s negligence.

The lawsuit says she fractured her spine when she fell on an unnatural accumulation of snow and ice in the parking lot outside her residence Feb. 2, 2009. The YMHA operates the senior-citizen high-rise apartment complex.

Thelma D’Antonio seeks damages in excess of $25,000 in the lawsuit, which was filed Tuesday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court.

The complaint says the accumulation occurred due to the negligence of the authority, a John Doe corporation and a John Doe, who were responsible for maintenance at Struthers Manor, 585 Poland Ave.

D’Antonio underwent surgery, endured pain and suffering, and incurred medical expenses due to her fall, the suit says. The complaint, which demands a jury trial, has been assigned to Judge James C. Evans.

“We try our best to ensure that our residents are safe and secure,” said Clifford Scott, YMHA director. “Our residents’ quality of life is our utmost priority,” he said, adding the complaint has been turned over to the authority’s insurance carrier.