A woman is suing the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, claiming she was injured when an elevator at the property fell 22 stories. The lawsuit, filed by Rebecca Keith Wood in February 2024, alleges the incident occurred in June 2023 while she was staying at Palms Place, a condo-hotel tower connected to the resort, which features restaurants, nightlife, and a full casino.
According to the lawsuit, Wood was inside the elevator when it dropped rapidly to the ground level. She states that the elevator "violently slammed" to a stop, resulting in injuries to her limbs, organs, and nervous system. Wood asserts that some of the damage may be permanent, leading her to seek extensive compensation.
Initially, Otis Elevator Company was named as a defendant in the lawsuit, but court records indicate that Otis has since been dismissed from the case. This leaves Palms Place LLC and Station Casinos as the remaining defendants. The suit accuses these parties of negligence, claiming they failed to adequately maintain or inspect the elevator and did not warn guests of any risks associated with its operation.
The lawsuit specifies damages "in excess of $15,000," which is the minimum amount required to file in Nevada District Court. However, given the severity of her injuries and her claims of long-term disability and pain, it is likely that Wood is pursuing a much higher amount, potentially reaching into the hundreds of thousands or even low millions. She is seeking compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and legal costs.
As of March 2025, there have been no public incident reports confirming the elevator fall, nor have any statements been issued by the Palms, Station Casinos, or Otis. Additionally, no witnesses or surveillance footage have been disclosed, leaving many details of the case unclear. The ongoing case is considered one of the more unusual personal injury lawsuits linked to a Las Vegas resort in recent years.
In her initial filing on March 3, 2025, Wood named Palms hotel-casino and its listed owners, FP Holdings L.P., along with Otis and TK Elevator Corporation as defendants. However, on March 14, TK Elevator was voluntarily dismissed from the complaint. An amended complaint was subsequently filed on March 20, 2025, with Palms Place added as a defendant.
Legal experts note that personal injury lawsuits involving large establishments like hotels often take considerable time to resolve, and the complexities of this case may prolong the process. The absence of corroborative evidence, such as incident reports or eyewitness accounts, could affect the outcome of Wood's claims.
As the case continues, it highlights the importance of safety measures in public facilities, particularly those that involve heavy machinery like elevators. The Palms Casino Resort, known for its vibrant atmosphere and luxurious accommodations, now faces scrutiny not only for the incident but also for the broader implications regarding guest safety.
In recent years, Las Vegas has seen a rise in personal injury lawsuits, particularly those involving accidents at hotels and casinos. This trend raises questions about the responsibilities of these establishments to ensure the safety of their guests. As more details emerge from Wood's case, it could set a precedent for how similar lawsuits are handled in the future.
While the Palms Casino Resort has yet to respond publicly to the lawsuit, the ongoing legal battle underscores the potential risks associated with high-rise buildings and the mechanical systems that support them. The outcome of this case may not only impact Wood's life but could also influence regulations and safety protocols across the hospitality industry.
As the legal proceedings unfold, both sides are likely to prepare for a lengthy process. Wood's legal team will need to present compelling evidence to support her claims, while the defendants will likely argue the adequacy of their safety measures and maintenance protocols. The case serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with modern conveniences and the legal responsibilities that come with them.
Ultimately, the resolution of Wood's lawsuit may hinge on the interpretation of negligence and the standards expected of high-profile hospitality venues. As the Las Vegas legal community watches closely, the implications of this case could resonate beyond the immediate parties involved, shaping the future of guest safety in the bustling entertainment capital.
