Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Family Files Government Claim in Boy’s Death From Falling Branch at King Gillette Ranch

The filing triggers a 45-day response window before a potential wrongful-death lawsuit.

Overview

  • The claim names the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority, the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, Camp Wildcraft owners Shari Davis and Benny Ferdman, and Gomez Landscape & Tree Care.
  • The filing cites a July 2 limb failure on the same oak and MRCA texts and emails requesting removal of a snapped branch and questioning the tree’s condition.
  • Contractor Gomez Landscape & Tree Care was hired after the July 2 incident and, according to the claim, warned MRCA about decay in the tree.
  • Family-hired arborists reported internal decay and prior limb losses on the oak involved in the July 9 collapse that killed 8-year-old Lamar McGlothurn and injured four others.
  • The MRCA says it is reviewing the claim and continuing an open investigation, and the agency has 45 days to respond before the family may proceed with a wrongful-death suit.