Bridge in Madison County torn down; Property owners claim it was removed without permission

Three Edwardsville residents say a covered bridge on their property was torn down without their permission.

Daniel E. and Marce A. Sykes and Douglas Duncan filed a lawsuit Nov. 15 in Madison County Circuit Court against Patsy Jackson and Thomas Lehan.

According to the complaint, the Sykeses own property in the 6000 block of Red Sunset Court and the 6600 block of Lake James Court. Duncan says he owns property in the 6600 block of Lake James Avenue.

Sometime between March 4 and March 6 Lehan, at the direction of Jackson, allegedly removed the covered bridge located on the plaintiffs' property. The property owners contend it was removed without permission.

The Sykeses and Duncan accuse the defendants of negligence. They seek a judgment to cover the costs of repair to the bridge and the difference in the fair market value of their property before and after the bridge was torn down. They also ask to be awarded court fees.

Attorney Michael J. Hertz of Edwardsville represents the Sykeses and Duncan. They request a jury trial.

Madison County Circuit Court Case No. 13-L-1920