A Canadian man is mourning the loss of his wife and 8-year-old son after they died from food poisoning while on vacation at a Dominican Republic resort. Now, he is seeking justice through a wrongful death lawsuit.
Stephen Gougeon, 38, had taken his family on what was meant to be a relaxing getaway. However, tragedy struck just 24 hours after their arrival. His wife, April Gougeon, 41, and their son, Oliver, became violently ill after eating at the resort’s buffet. Despite seeking medical attention, their conditions worsened, and they both passed away at local hospitals.
Heartbroken and searching for answers, Gougeon has filed a nearly $7 million lawsuit against the resort’s parent company and the travel agency responsible for booking their trip. He alleges that poor sanitary conditions in food preparation areas, inadequate medical response, and improper staff training played a role in their deaths.
“We called asking for help,” he said. “They did not take our call seriously, did not follow up on our request for medical help, and did not check in on us. When they finally responded after our further plea, there appeared to be confusion about how to handle the situation. These delays cost precious time that could have been used to treat our illness. And in the end, it cost my wife and my son their lives.”
Medical reports from the Dominican Republic confirmed that April and Oliver succumbed to complications arising from food poisoning. The lawsuit emphasizes that the resort failed in its duty to provide a safe environment for guests and did not have proper emergency protocols in place.
The family’s lawyer has expressed shock at the extent of negligence, stating that many travelers assume these all-inclusive vacations are safe. The lawsuit aims not only to hold those responsible accountable but also to bring about change that could prevent future tragedies.
April was remembered as a devoted mother and a compassionate individual who always helped others. She was a talented lawyer and found her greatest joy in her family. Oliver was a kindhearted child with a passion for art, known for his creativity and his strong bond with his younger brother.
This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks travelers face and highlights the importance of proper health and safety measures at vacation resorts.
