In a heartbreaking turn of events, a Canadian father is seeking justice after the tragic deaths of his wife and young son during what was supposed to be a joyful family vacation in the Dominican Republic. Following their sudden illness and demise within a mere 24 hours of arriving at a resort, Stephen Gougeon has filed a wrongful death lawsuit for approximately $7 million against Wyndham Hotels and Air Transat. As he grapples with unimaginable loss, Stephen’s story not only highlights the devastating impact of this incident on his family but raises critical questions about safety and accountability in the hospitality industry. With the Gougeons’ experience serving as a cautionary tale, this case underscores the need for rigorous standards to protect travelers and ensure that vacations remain a source of joy, rather than tragedy.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Wrongful death claim filed after mother and son died following illness at a Dominican Republic resort. |
| Claimant | Stephen Gougeon |
| Victims | April Gougeon (41) and Oliver Gougeon (8) |
| Date of Incident | December 29, 2023 |
| Location | Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham Resort, Dominican Republic |
| Claim Amount | Approximately $7 million |
| Cause of Death | Secondary causes related to food poisoning according to coroner’s report |
| Legal Action Against | Wyndham Hotels and Air Transat |
| Lawyer’s Statement | Meghan Hull Jacquin stated that the Gougeon family was let down in many ways. |
| Family’s Purpose for Lawsuit | To seek justice, find answers, and protect other vacationers. |
| Obituary Highlights | April was a loving mother and skilled lawyer; Oliver was talented in art and a good brother. |
Tragic Vacation: The Gougeon Family’s Story
The Gougeon family’s vacation to the Dominican Republic was meant to be a joyful escape from everyday life. However, it turned into a heartbreaking tragedy when Stephen Gougeon’s wife, April, and their 8-year-old son, Oliver, fell gravely ill after dining at a buffet. Within just 24 hours of arriving, both suffered severe health complications that would ultimately lead to their untimely deaths. This shocking turn of events raises concerns about safety in vacation resorts, which many families trust for a relaxing getaway.
As the family set off with hopes of fun and relaxation, they never imagined that their trip would end in such sorrow. Stephen’s emotional statements highlight the depth of his loss. He expressed that not only did he lose his wife, whom he cherished deeply, but he also lost his son, who brought joy and excitement into their lives. Their tragic story serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities travelers face and the importance of ensuring safety and proper medical care while on vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the Gougeon family in the Dominican Republic?
The Gougeon family fell ill shortly after arriving at a resort, leading to the tragic deaths of April and Oliver Gougeon within 24 hours of eating at a buffet.
Why is Stephen Gougeon filing a lawsuit?
Stephen Gougeon is suing for wrongful death, seeking approximately $7 million due to alleged negligence by the resort and the airline that contributed to his family’s tragic situation.
What were the causes of death for April and Oliver Gougeon?
According to the coroner’s report, April and Oliver Gougeon died from secondary causes related to food poisoning after consuming food at the resort.
What issues did the Gougeon family experience at the resort?
They faced delays in medical assistance, inadequate responses from staff, and concerns about cleanliness in food processing areas, which worsened their conditions.
What do the Gougeons hope to achieve with their lawsuit?
They aim to find justice for their losses, raise awareness about safety issues at resorts, and prevent similar tragedies for other vacationers.
How did Air Transat respond to the lawsuit?
Air Transat expressed sadness over the deaths but denied the allegations, stating they supported the family during the incident and ensured careful supplier selection.
What was April Gougeon remembered for?
April Gougeon was remembered as a loving mother and skilled lawyer, always ready to help others, bringing joy to her family.
Summary
A Canadian father, Stephen Gougeon, has filed a $7 million wrongful death lawsuit after his wife, April, and their 8-year-old son, Oliver, died shortly after eating at a buffet in the Dominican Republic. The family became ill within 24 hours of arriving at the resort. Stephen claims that the hotel staff failed to provide timely medical assistance, which he believes contributed to their deaths from food poisoning. The lawsuit targets Wyndham Hotels and Air Transat, aiming to seek justice and raise awareness about safety in all-inclusive resorts to protect other families.
