Trial Magazine

Nagy Ibrahim, 21, was a guest at Roe Motel. As he was walking toward the motel from his vehicle, two pit bulls allegedly owned by motel resident Lamar Smith ran toward Ibrahim and attacked him without provocation. The dogs bit Ibrahim’s arms, legs, and neck, resulting in dislocation of both of his shoulders, a broken left wrist, and severe pain. His medical expenses totaled approximately $117,000.

Ibrahim sued King County, Wash., alleging that its animal control unit failed to take action against the dogs after an investigation into a previous attack on another motel guest months earlier. Suit also named the motel, alleging premises liability. The plaintiff did not claim lost income.

The defendants denied wrongdoing. The parties settled for more than $1.8 million.

Citation: Ibrahim v. King Cnty., No. 22-2-05707-6 (Wash. Super. Ct. King Cnty. June 26, 2024).

Plaintiff Counsel: AAJ member William T. McClure, Tacoma, Wash.