Siblings Sue Dead Sister, City Over Death of Mother

By Erik Ricasa

Published on July 22, 2005

The two women, Ruby Edwards, 79, and Neo Brown, 53, died Nov. 5, 2003 when their Chevrolet Blazer Brown was driving was struck while crossing an intersection. Witnesses reported that Brown failed to stop at a stop sign.

Suit was filed by Gary Edwards, a county sheriff, Mike Edwards, and Ruby Boyle against their sister's estate, alleging that the crash, and their mother's death, was the result of their deceased sister's negligent driving. The suit seeks monetary damages.

Brown's insurance company has retained attorneys representing her estate. They say the city is liable because it should have installed additional traffic signals. They have not filed suit.

In response, the Edwards family included the city in their legal action in case a judge or jury determined both parties were at fault and to different degrees.

According to police reports, Brown and her mother were struck broadside by a Land Rover. The Blazer rolled and landed upright off the road.

An inspection by the city determined the signage and striping at the intersection to be according to regulation.

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