Categories: Breaking NewsGovernment NewsNewsPolitics

Kansas City Family Takes Legal Stand Following Daughter’s Tragic Death

Memorial setup in Kansas City representing loss and workplace safety advocacy.

News Summary

In a deeply moving case, the Ortiz family from Kansas City is suing FedEx and Securitas after the tragic loss of their daughter, Reyna Ortiz, who died by suicide from a fentanyl overdose. The lawsuit cites neglect and a hostile work environment, alleging that Reyna faced discrimination due to her identity as a transgender woman. With Reyna’s body left undiscovered for three days, the family seeks accountability and reform in workplace safety and employee mental health support.

Kansas City Family Takes Legal Stand Over Tragic Loss of Daughter

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, a family in Kansas City is grappling with the devastating loss of their daughter, Reyna Ortiz. The 22-year-old FedEx employee tragically died by suicide from a fentanyl overdose in a parking lot belonging to her employer on December 23, 2022. Following this unimaginable loss, her parents, Salvador Ortiz and Rosa Medellin, have stepped forward to file a lawsuit against both FedEx and the security contractor, Securitas, on March 21 in the Jackson County Circuit Court.

A Disturbing Discovery

The ordeal took a grim turn when Ortiz’s body was reportedly left in her vehicle for more than three days before it was discovered. Her parents had been desperately searching for her while her body decomposed in the car. The tragic situation became widely known when Kansas City police received a call on December 26, 2022, regarding a body found in the area.

Bullying and Discrimination Allegations

Reyna was transgender, and the family alleges that she faced severe bullying and harassment at her workplace, claiming that her identity made her a target for discrimination. The lawsuit suggests that the stress and turmoil she experienced during her time at FedEx contributed significantly to Reyna’s mental health struggles, which ultimately led to her untimely death. The family’s attorneys have articulated the pain and suffering endured by her parents as “unfathomable,” given the tragic circumstances surrounding their daughter’s passing.

The Weight of Negligence

In their legal action, the Ortiz family accuses both FedEx and Securitas of negligence, interference with burial rights, and breach of contract. They seek accountability from the companies for their alleged failure to provide a safe and compassionate working environment that may have contributed to Reyna’s tragic decision. Their legal counsel has pointed to prior incidents of similar nature, suggesting that security staff working on-site should carry Narcan, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, to better respond to emergencies of this kind.

A Community in Mourning

As the community comes to grips with the loss of Reyna Ortiz, many are left questioning how such circumstances could unfold in a workplace that is meant to support its employees. The tragic events raise important conversations about the well-being of workers, particularly those who may face discrimination or harassment due to their identity. The family hopes their lawsuit will foster change within companies and bring awareness to the mental health challenges faced by employees.

Awaiting Responses

To date, both FedEx and Securitas have not provided any comments regarding the lawsuit. The silence from the companies has raised eyebrows, as many await more information surrounding this heartbreaking incident. The Ortiz family’s journey towards finding closure and justice for Reyna continues as they navigate the legal process.

A Call for Change

The heartbreaking loss of Reyna has opened the door for vital discussions on workplace safety, mental health, and the treatment of employees, especially those from marginalized communities. Many hope that the attention brought on by this lawsuit will result in significant changes in how companies handle employee grievances, support mental health, and ensure a respectful work environment.

The community stands behind the Ortiz family, offering condolences and support as they seek answers in the wake of a tragedy that has left its indelible mark on Kansas City. As the legal proceedings unfold, many will be watching closely, hoping for justice and a renewed commitment to creating safe workplaces for all.