Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed After Fulshear Woman Dies from Legionnaires’ Disease
FULSHEAR, Texas – The family of a woman from Fulshear has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Bonterra at Cross Creek Ranch Community Association and other related entities following her death from Legionnaires’ disease.
Attorney Jory Lange explained that the lawsuit aims to provide answers to the family regarding the circumstances surrounding Antoinette Marinchak’s death. Marinchak, aged 76, fell ill around June 12 and passed away on June 28 after contracting Legionnaires’ disease while using the facilities at the Bonterra Club House.
According to Lange, Marinchak frequented the Bonterra community clubhouse, which acted as the social hub of the neighborhood. However, only one of the entities allegedly associated with the clubhouse, the Johnson Development Corp., responded to inquiries from KPRC 2.
In a statement, the Johnson Development Corp. expressed sadness over Marinchak’s death and acknowledged the Legionella bacteria outbreak. However, they clarified that they do not own or operate the Bonterra community or its clubhouse, as it was sold to a third-party builder/developer. The company assured their cooperation with any requests made by the Fort Bend County Health & Human Services Department.
Meanwhile, Fort Bend County Health and Human Services (FBCHHS) is conducting an investigation into the outbreak. FBCHHS was notified of a potential outbreak on June 22 within the Bonterra Community and initiated an active investigation. Currently, there are four confirmed cases and five probable cases of Legionnaires’ disease believed to be linked to individuals who used the facilities at the Bonterra Clubhouse.
FBCHHS confirmed at least one death among the victims but cannot determine the cause until an epidemiology report is completed. As a cautionary measure, the Bonterra Clubhouse facilities will remain closed while on-site inspections and investigations continue to mitigate potential health risks associated with the localized outbreak.
Legionnaires’ disease presents symptoms such as cough, muscle aches, fever, shortness of breath, and headache. FBCHHS advises residents who experience these symptoms consistent with legionellosis to seek immediate medical attention and provide their healthcare provider with information about their exposure for appropriate testing.
The lawsuit and ongoing investigation bring attention to the importance of identifying and addressing potential health risks within community facilities, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Fulshear.
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