Fell Down Elevator Shaft; Sues Local Firm

John Laber Asks Damages of $10,000 Against Central Hardware Company For Injuries

Submitted by Peggy A. Wells

John Laber filed suit in the Lawrence county court of common pleas this afternoon asking damage of $10,000 against the Central Hardware Company of south Second street as a result of injuries sustained when he fell into an elevator shaft at the local concern’s store.

Laber points out that he visited the defendant company’s store on April 5, last, for the purpose of making some purchases. The merchandise which he intended buying was located on the third floor and he was requested by C. E. Crance, the clerk, to enter the elevator.

The elevator is located in a dim part of the building, it is pointed out, and as a result the plaintiff was unable to see his way. When the elevator gate on the first floor was raised Laber entered, he says, but the elevator was not there and he fell into the shaft. As a result of the accident, Laber says he was made sick, sore, lame and otherwise injured. His left arm was fractured at the elbow and now he does not have the proper use of it.

Laber says he was forced to spend $100 for medical attention and other professional and hospital expenses.

Prior to the accident he was engaged in lucrative work. Laber says, and since the accident he has been unable to work for 11 weeks. He has been permanently partially disabled and incapacitated from earning a livelihood and by reason of the various injuries he has sustained he asks damages of $10,000. The suit is filed through the office of Attorney H. A. McCown.

Eight instances of negligence on the part of the defendant are set out by Laber.

Ironton Tribune, 25 June 1932, Saturday, Page 2.