Stilwell couple sues school district over lawn-mowing incident

By BOB GIBBINS

TAHLEQUAH DAILY PRESS May 14, 2008 10:53 am

— STILWELL – A Stilwell couple who owns property across the street from Stilwell Public Schools alleges a lawn mowing incident on school property sent a metal bolt through a window in their home.
Leon and Pat Goodwin filed suit earlier this month against SPS and a John Doe employee who was mowing when the incident occurred.
The incident caused Pat Goodwin to be injured, and she suffered “great pain of body and mind.” Pat has also incurred medical expenses.
The incident occurred Aug. 25, 2006, and a governmental tort claim was denied by the district Nov. 20, 2007. The tort claim must be filed and denied prior to a suit’s being filed against a school district.
The suit alleges the school district and its employee were negligent in their failure to properly maintain their equipment and/or protect others from harm.
The Goodwins also suffered property damage, along with Pat’s physical injuries.
The couple’s suit alleges Pat was prevented from transacting her business. Pat continues to require medical care, court records state, and the amount of her personal injury damages have not been determined due to her continuing medical care.
Nathan E. Barnard, a Tulsa attorney, represents the Goodwins.