Family of Chelsea Adolphus sues Vista Medical for wrongful death; hospital asks Blanken to be removed from probe

WAUKEGAN, Ill. (WLS) — The family of Chelsea Adolphus filed a wrongful death lawsuit against a Waukegan hospital, attorney Ben Crump said.

Chelsea Adolphus, 28, was identified as the woman who died at Vista Medical Center East last week.

Preliminary findings from the initial autopsy indicate that her cause of death was hypothermia. This occurred after she was accidentally locked out of the hospital, as reported by Jennifer Banek, the Coroner of Lake County, Illinois.

Crump said the lawsuit was filed against the hospital on the basis of premise liability, negligence and medical malpractice.

Paul Adolphus Jr., Chelsea’s brother, said hospital staff told him a false story about his sister’s passing at a Family Dollar two blocks away.

He found out that she had frozen to death on the roof of the hospital via social media posts.

Relatives said she had gone to the hospital for a relatively minor medical issue and was due to be discharged soon.

It’s not clear how she got on the roof of Vista Medical Center. Investigators said the door to the roof locked from the outside.

RELATED | Woman found on Waukegan hospital roof dies, coroner says cause was hypothermia

Vista Medical Center East CEO Kevin Spiegel also held a press conference Wednesday regarding the death investigation of Adolphus.

On Monday, Banek held a press conference voicing concerns on the hospital’s ability to care for patients. Banek is a former employee of the hospital.

Spiegel emphasized the necessity of working diligently and collaboratively, paying attention to every detail. This approach is crucial not only to show consideration for the family but also to maintain the trust of the community.

The CEO was accompanied by dozens of hospital staff showing their support.

Spiegel shared concerns that Banek’s actions are “retaliatory” and accused her comments of being inaccurate.

The CEO said the hospital filed a request to the court for an emergency injunction to have Banek removed from the investigation.

Spiegel expressed Vista Health System’s anticipation of a comprehensive, impartial investigation. The primary goal is to bring clarity and resolution to the tragic circumstances surrounding this incident.

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