The family of 14-year-old Sean Richards, tragically killed in a crash involving a car exiting Fuller's Car Wash in Hinsdale, has filed a lawsuit against the establishment and the father of the 16-year-old driver. According to a report by the Chicago Tribune, the lawsuit seeks damages, citing multiple prior incidents at the same car wash that imply a history of vehicles losing control.
During a press conference, attorney Bradley Cosgrove, representing the Richards family, stated, "This was a preventable and predictable tragedy that was clearly avoidable." Despite previous crashes in 2007 and as recently as a year prior, where out-of-control vehicles jumped the curb, the car wash failed to implement recommended safety measures. Holding her son after he was struck by the car, Sean's mother, Kristine Richards, first thought the incident was an intentional attack.
Sean's death has sparked outrage and grief amongst his family, who are now demanding accountability and change. "Sean should be alive today," Kristine Richards said, as obtained by WLS. "He should be finishing final exams, attending swim practice, and getting ready for Christmas with his family. Instead, he's dead because of the reckless actions of Fuller's."
Since the fatal incident, Fuller's Car Wash has installed concrete bollards. However, the grieving family claims these measures are insufficient as heavy vehicles continue to frequent the business, leaving the public at risk. Fuller's Car Wash owners, in a statement by the Tribune, extended their prayers to the Richards and the communities affected, emphasizing that their pledge and promise to serve the community continue. At the bottom of his laughter and generous, two-armed hugs, Sean was remembered by his dad for his sunny disposition and positive influence.
The legal battle has also spurred action from others affected by the crash. Three people inside the Fontano's Subs sandwich shop, struck by the accelerating Jeep, have filed a separate lawsuit claiming severe injuries. The 16-year-old driver, who authorities confirmed had mistaken the accelerator for the brake, faces traffic citations but the crash was ruled an accident by police. The Richards family, enduring the grief of a lost child, altar boy, and Boy Scout, are determined to enact change. "We want to make sure that no other family has to go through the hell that we're living and will live the rest of our lives," Kristine Richards told WLS.
