By Leila Merrill
FireRescue1
SPARKS, Nev. — An 84-year-old woman claims she suffered a brain injury after being pushed to the ground by a firefighter while she was feeding feral cats in December, the Washington Post reported.
Her lawsuit alleges that Sparks Firefighter Timothy Egan battered her with excessive force when he pushed her to the ground, causing her to hit her head on the pavement. Maureen Hvegholm went home with a lump on her forehead and was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury.
Hvegholm had been feeding stray cats for about 16 years, the Post reported.
“Hvegholm has suffered a severe decline in her quality of life, her ability to move about freely, and her ability to care for herself independent of her children — as well as a looming sense of panic, terror, and lack of security in her home,” the lawsuit states.
The incident was captured on video.
Gayla Ouellette, Hvegholm’s daughter, said that firefighters had told Hvegholm on previous occasions not to feed the stray cats. Firefighters told police that the cats climb onto their equipment and scratch it, according to the incident report.
Hvegholm’s suit is requesting more than $15,000 in damages, medical expenses and legal fees.
Ouellette said she also wants an apology from Egan, who continues to work for the fire department, according to a spokesperson.
Hvegholm continues to feed stray cats – but not near the fire station.