Woman claims she was injured at Wheeling City Council meeting

WHEELING – An Ohio County woman is suing over claims she was injured in the Wheeling City/County Building.

Hazel E. Shia filed a lawsuit June 12 in Ohio Circuit Court against the city of Wheeling, citing negligence.

According to the complaint, Shia was invited to the City Council Chambers at the City/County Building in Wheeling on April 2, 2013, to be recognized at a city council meeting as a dedicated volunteer.

Shia says she entered a door not marked as the city council members' entrance, and she tripped on the platform that held members' desks. The lawsuit says Shia was transported to the hospital where she underwent surgery for her injuries and continues to require assistance at home.

According to the lawsuit, a sign directing the general public not to enter the city council members' entrance was erected after Shia's fall.

Shia is seeking damages and court costs.

She is being represented in the case by attorney Ronald Wm Kasserman of Kasserman Law Offices PLLC in Wheeling. The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Martin J. Gaughn.

Ohio Circuit Court Case No. 14-C-167