(GREENWOOD, S.C.)—A lawsuit filed against a local Greenwood restaurant, International Café, was settled last week in Greenwood County Common Pleas Court, marking a significant step towards justice for the family of Mr. Laughlin. The Hite Law Firm filed the case on behalf of the Estate of John Roger Laughlin.
Mr. Laughlin tragically lost his life after consuming a meal at International Café on September 19, 2020. After eating chicken wings and rice from the establishment, he fell ill, experiencing severe vomiting and diarrhea. Tragically, Mr. Laughlin passed away the following morning. Several other individuals who ate the rice also became sick according to DHEC reports. A DHEC inspection cited the restaurant for improper cooling temperatures.
The brother-sister team of Tombo Hite and Heather Hite Stone fought diligently on behalf of the estate of John Roger Laughlin to bring attention to the negligence that led to this devastating incident. Tombo Hite said, “This settlement serves as a recognition of the pain and suffering endured by Mr. Laughlin’s family at the loss of his life. We hope no one else will lose a loved one due to the failure to follow basic food safety procedures.”
