The heartbreaking death of a 3-year-old boy, Tidus Bass, who fell from a window at Independence Towers in Independence, Missouri, has prompted his parents to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
The tragedy occurred in July 2024 when Tidus fell nine stories from his bedroom window, resulting in fatal injuries.
His parents, Destiny Randle and Moses Bass, are now suing multiple entities, including window companies and the management of the property. This article provides detailed information about the incident, the lawsuit, and the allegations made by the parents.
Details of the Tragic Incident
On the morning of the incident, Tidus was in his bedroom at Independence Towers, located at 728 N. Jennings, when he tragically fell from the window.
Emergency responders found him suffering from severe injuries, including numerous fractures, respiratory failure, and a pulmonary contusion. Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Tidus succumbed to his injuries and passed away at the hospital.
The incident has raised questions regarding the safety and maintenance of the building, particularly the windows that failed to prevent such a tragedy.
The Lawsuit: Allegations and Concerns
Destiny Randle and Moses Bass are holding both window companies and the property management accountable for what they consider negligence in the wrongful death lawsuit. The lawsuit names several parties, including:
- Two window companies responsible for the safety of the windows
- Four companies involved in the ownership and management of Independence Towers
The lawsuit claims the following:
- Defective Windows:
- The master bedroom windows lacked screens, and the window screen in another bedroom was torn, leading to an unsafe living environment.
- Inadequate Locking Mechanisms: The windows were easily opened, which made it possible for a young child like Tidus to open them without difficulty.
- Uninhabitable Living Conditions:
- Mold Growth: The apartment had significant mold growth that posed a health hazard.
- Infestation of Bedbugs: A bedbug infestation was reported in the apartment.
- Rodent and Pest Infestation: There were reports of rodents and other pests within the apartment.
- Deteriorating Conditions: The walls, ceilings, and floors of the apartment showed severe deterioration, further adding to the unsafe environment.
- Negligence of Property Management:
- The property managers, including FTW and Tango Property Management, allegedly failed to address the complaints made by the tenants regarding the unsafe conditions, including the windows and heating/cooling systems.
- The apartment did not have adequate heating, air conditioning, or hot water, all of which are essential for safe and comfortable living.
Impact on the Community and Other Tenants
The tragedy of Tidus’ death has drawn attention to the broader issues at Independence Towers. Several other tenants have come forward, confirming that they too made complaints about the living conditions in the building.
These tenants shared their concerns about the unsanitary conditions, maintenance issues, and lack of basic utilities, including heating, cooling, and hot water.
The situation has sparked outrage among residents, who are calling for immediate changes to ensure safety in the building.
Many believe that the failure to address the maintenance issues contributed to the unsafe conditions that led to Tidus’ death.
The tragic death of Tidus Bass has raised serious concerns about the safety of tenants living in Independence Towers. The parents’ decision to file a wrongful death lawsuit highlights significant issues with the property’s maintenance and the management’s failure to address tenant complaints.
The case brings attention to the importance of safe living conditions, particularly for children, and serves as a reminder of the responsibility property managers and owners have in maintaining a safe environment for residents.
As the lawsuit proceeds, it may lead to changes in policies regarding safety and tenant rights, ultimately working toward preventing similar tragedies in the future.