In a dramatic legal confrontation, a Harris County resident has taken on a major retail giant over an alleged negligence incident that left her injured. On March 28, 2025, Bernice Coronado filed a lawsuit in the District Court of Harris County against Dillard’s Inc., operating as Dillard Department Stores Inc., and Hester Williams. The complaint accuses the defendants of failing to maintain safe premises, leading to Coronado's slip and fall at one of their stores.
The incident occurred on July 16, 2023, when Coronado visited the Dillard’s store located at Baybrook Mall in Friendswood, Texas. According to the complaint, she was shopping for personal items when she slipped on a puddle of water in the makeup section. The lawsuit claims that there were no warnings about the wet floor and that this oversight resulted in serious personal injuries for Coronado. "Plaintiff has now suffered and sustained serious personal injury and damages," states the filing.
Coronado alleges that both Dillard’s Inc. and Hester Williams, who managed the premises, neglected their duty to ensure customer safety by failing to inspect for hazardous conditions or provide adequate warnings. The plaintiff outlines several acts of negligence including not maintaining clean aisles, failing to warn customers about dangerous conditions, and inadequate employee training and supervision. These failures are said to have directly contributed to her injuries.
The lawsuit seeks monetary relief of $250,000 or less, excluding interest and attorney fees. Coronado is asking for compensation for medical expenses incurred due to her injuries as well as future costs related to physical pain, mental anguish, disfigurement, and impairment. She also demands a jury trial under the Texas Constitution.
Representing Bernice Coronado are attorneys Matias J. Adrogué and Leila M. El-Hakam from Matias J. Adrogue PLLC based in Houston, Texas. The case is filed under Case ID 2025-21 244 with Judge Christopher Matthews presiding over proceedings.