Image: TIM WRIGHT / SPECIAL TO THE STAR-ADVERTISER
Family sues Hilo nursing home operator after coronavirus-related death of Vietnam War veteran
News Source: Star Advertiser
Attorney Jeffrey Foster has filed a wrongful death suit on behalf of Chris Drayer’s sons, Noah Bennett-Drayer and Daniel Bennett-Drayer. The suit, lodged in Hilo Circuit Court, targets Avalon Health Care and affiliates, including Avalon Regional Vice President for Hawaii Tina Irwin, following Drayer’s death from COVID-19 contracted at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home.
Chris Drayer, a 70-year-old from Volcano and a highly decorated U.S. Army veteran with two tours in Vietnam, succumbed to the virus on September 2 at the Hilo veterans home. The lawsuit demands a jury trial and seeks damages, with the exact amount to be determined during the trial, along with court costs.
Foster expressed outrage at Drayer’s death, blaming Avalon for failing to ensure his safety. He criticized the facility for its alleged failure to implement basic protective measures, calling it a systemic breakdown in following established protocols that other care facilities have successfully used to safeguard residents during the pandemic.
The lawsuit underscores the devastating impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable populations and the importance of adequate safety measures in such facilities. Foster’s legal action aims to hold Avalon accountable for what he perceives as negligence, seeking justice for Drayer’s untimely death and highlighting the need for enhanced protection of vulnerable residents in care facilities.