Mother Sues American Airlines Seeking Answers After 14-Year-Old Son’s Death on Flight

Melissa Arzu, a grieving mother, is suing American Airlines following the tragic death of her 14-year-old son, Kevin Greenidge, on a flight returning from Honduras to New York in 2022. The lawsuit alleges a delayed response and inadequate medical support from the flight crew, which ultimately led to the boy’s death shortly after takeoff.

According to the lawsuit, the flight crew was slow to assist when Greenidge’s family called for help as he lost consciousness. Further compounding the tragedy, the suit claims that the crew was either unable to operate the onboard defibrillator, or the device was faulty. Despite efforts to save him, the flight was diverted to Cancún, where Greenidge was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Originally filed in New York in 2023, the case was recently refiled in Texas, where American Airlines is headquartered, after the airline requested the jurisdiction change.

In a heart-wrenching statement distributed by her legal team, Arzu expressed her frustration and despair, stating, “After Kevin died, I never heard from American Airlines again. It made me feel hopeless. I want answers from American Airlines.”

The lawsuit highlights a critical claim that the flight crew lacked training for the specific model of defibrillator on the plane. Records indicated that the defibrillator advised the crew to continue CPR without delivering a shock, suggesting a possible malfunction or incorrect usage.

Adding to the controversy, Arzu’s attorney, Hannah Crowe, remarked, “After Kevin died, the equipment went missing,” raising questions about the handling of potential evidence.

The family is seeking approximately $150,000 in compensation for their loss. Meanwhile, American Airlines has offered condolences but declined to comment further due to the ongoing litigation. The statement from the airline read, “Our thoughts are with Mr. Greenidge’s loved ones.”

This lawsuit underscores the critical importance of proper emergency training and equipment maintenance on commercial flights, as well as the need for transparency and accountability from airlines in the aftermath of such tragedies.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, businessinsider.com