Quinn Johnston Earns Defense Verdict in McDonough County Wrongful Death Case

Macomb, Illinois – After an eight-day jury trial in McDonough County Circuit Court, a jury returned a defense verdict in favor of Quinn Johnston’s client on October 8, 2025. This wrongful death lawsuit was filed following a 2019 surgical procedure. Four defendants were involved, including two hospitals. Seven different experts testified in the case.

The case stemmed from a Nissen fundoplication procedure performed on November 12, 2019. The plaintiff, a 69-year-old truck driver, alleged that the hospital nurses failed to timely notify the surgeon of the patient’s post-operative symptoms and abnormal lab values. The plaintiff claimed these findings, combined with reports of shortness of breath, should have prompted immediate medical intervention. The defense maintained that the hospital staff and surgeon acted appropriately and that the patient’s rapid deterioration was due to complications beyond the hospital’s control. Two days after surgery, Plaintiff was life-flighted to a Central Illinois hospital and unfortunately passed away a few days later.

Plaintiff sought $4.62 million in damages. The jury deliberated for one hour and thirty-five minutes, before ruling in favor of the hospital, awarding zero dollars to the plaintiff.

“We are proud of this result and for our client. We believe this was the correct outcome and we are thankful the jury sided in our favor,” said lead trial attorney and Quinn Johnston partner, Mitch Gilfillan.