Family of Godfrey man killed by driver crashing into house files suit

The family of a Godfrey man who was killed when a car crashed into his house is suing the driver and the bar that allegedly served the driver alcohol.

Brian Bushnell, individually and on behalf of the estate of Marlin F. Bushnell, filed a lawsuit against Jacob L. Fickle and Beer Barrel Pub Inc.

According to the complaint, Fickle was driving west on Saturn Drive on Jan. 13 when he left the road and drove his car into the house of Marlin Bushnell. Bushnell allegedly died as a result of his injuries received in the crash. Brian Bushnell, Marlin's son, accuses Fickle of being drunk when he drove off the road. He also claims the Beer Barrel Pub in Godfrey is responsible for his father's death for serving drinks to Fickle prior to the crash, a violation of Illinois' Dram Shop Act.

Bushnell asks for more than $200,000 in damages and court costs.

He is represented by the Wittman and Lorton law firm of Jerseyville. They request a jury trial.

Madison County Circuit Court Case No. 13-L-1349