Lading
The family of a Madison County man killed by an allegedly drunk driver is suing the owners of the bars that served alcohol to the man who caused the crash.
Lori Churchman Mortland, on behalf of the Estate of William R. Churchman, Tabitha Schulte and Calebe Churchman filed the lawsuit against Ten-Pin Lounge Inc. and the building's owners, Bonnie and Michael Mehilos.
Woodstock Lounge Inc. and its buildings owners, Four Siblings Inc. and Lois C. Lamere are also named as defendants in the complaint filed Jan. 19 in Madison County Circuit Court
Mortland alleges the Ten-Pin Lounge and Woodstock Lounge served alcoholic beverages to Matthew L. Webster in January 2010. After drinking at both bars, Webster allegedly drove his car across the center line of State Highway 16, crashing head-on into a car driven by Churchman. Churchman later died from his injuries.
The Churchman family claims the bars are negligent and liable for violating Illinois' Dram Shop Act. They are asking for an unspecified amount of money in damages along with court costs.
Attorney Philip J. Lading of Edwardsville is representing the family. They request a jury trial.
Madison County Circuit Court Case No. 11-L-45