Shopper Sues After Severe Injury at Retail Store

In March 2025, a shopper from Santa Rosa, California filed a personal injury lawsuit against Costco Wholesale Corporation, alleging that she suffered severe and permanent injuries while shopping inside one of the company’s stores. The lawsuit, originally filed in Alameda County Superior Court and later transferred to federal court, seeks more than $14 million in damages.

According to the legal complaint, the incident occurred when a large liquor display cabinet unexpectedly toppled over in a store aisle and fell on the woman. She claims the display was improperly set up in an unsafe or unstable manner, potentially resting on worn or defective pallets, which caused it to collapse.

The impact allegedly resulted in serious injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, along with other lasting physical and emotional harm. As a result, the lawsuit seeks compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, medical expenses, lost wages, diminished future earning capacity, and additional costs related to her recovery.

Costco has not publicly commented on the allegations, and the case remains pending as it moves through the legal process. The lawsuit highlights broader concerns about customer safety and proper store display practices in large retail environments.