Family files suit after woman dies in crash

The husband and parents of a recently deceased woman claim the woman's son has lost his mother's companionship after she was killed during a rear-end collision.

Chadrick Davis and Dorman and Donna Hawthorne filed a lawsuit Aug. 30 in Jefferson County District Court against Michael Bass.

In their complaint, the plaintiffs allege Amber Hawthorne stopped for a red light in the 8300 block of College Street in Beaumont on May 1 when Bass, who was allegedly intoxicated, crashed into the rear of her vehicle.

Because of the collision, Amber Hawthorne suffered severe injuries from which she died.

At the time of the accident, Amber Hawthorne had a son, Cade Ryan Davis, who lost his mother's companionship and society and suffered mental anguish because of his mother's death, according to the complaint.

The plaintiffs blame Bass for causing the collision, saying he negligently drove too fast, failed to control his vehicle, failed to keep a proper lookout and drove while intoxicated.

The plaintiffs seek a judgment within the jurisdictional limits of Jefferson County District Court, plus pre- and post-judgment interest, exemplary damages, costs and other relief the court deems just.

Douglas C. Sikes of Provost and Umphrey Law Firm in Beaumont and J. Trenton Bond of Portner and Bond in Beaumont will be representing them.

Judge Donald Floyd, 172nd District Court, has been assigned to the case.

Case No. E190-739