Family Files $50 Million Lawsuit Against Dollar Tree Over Doctor's Tragic Death
A grieving family has initiated legal action against a Miami Dollar Tree store and its manager following the discovery of a Nicaraguan anesthesiologist deceased inside an employees-only walk-in freezer. Dr Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez, aged 32, was found unresponsive and naked in the restricted area on the morning of December 14, prompting a lawsuit that alleges negligence and seeks a jury trial alongside damages exceeding $50 million.
Autopsy Reveals Alcohol as Contributory Factor in Hypothermia Death
According to an autopsy report obtained by Local 10 News, Dr Sanchez had a blood ethanol level of 0.112 percent at the time of her death, which surpasses the legal limit of 0.08 percent. The report concluded that environmental hypothermia was the cause of death, with ethanol use listed as a contributory cause. Notably, no drugs were detected in her system, reinforcing the role of alcohol in accelerating heat loss, as explained by the Mayo Clinic.
Investigation Details and Store Surveillance Footage
Miami police have stated that no foul play is suspected in this case, although investigators remain uncertain about Dr Sanchez's state of mind prior to the incident. Surveillance video from the store reportedly shows her entering the employees-only area independently on December 13, before the store closed at 10pm, without making any purchases. The lawsuit contends that she became trapped overnight in the freezer and that the manager, despite being aware she was missing, failed to take reasonable steps to locate or assist her.
Contradictions and Emergency Release Mechanism
Earlier this month, an officer informed WPLG News that the freezer door was not obstructed and featured an emergency release allowing it to be opened from the inside. This detail raises questions about the circumstances leading to her entrapment. In response to the tragedy, a Dollar Tree spokesperson expressed condolences to the family and confirmed full cooperation with authorities, emphasizing the company's commitment to the ongoing investigation.
Remembering a Dedicated Medical Professional and Loving Mother
Dr Sanchez, who specialized in congenital heart disease, was visiting relatives in Miami while her two children remained in Nicaragua. Loved ones have described her as a compassionate and skilled medical professional, as well as a devoted mother and wife. A GoFundMe campaign was established to cover expenses associated with repatriating her body to Nicaragua, highlighting her legacy of care and dedication to her family.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Inquiries
The family's lawsuit alleges that the store manager was placed on actual notice of Dr Sanchez's disappearance but neglected to take appropriate action. As the case proceeds, investigators have classified the death as unclassified, with no evidence of criminal activity. The Daily Mail has reached out to the Medical Examiner's Office, Miami-Dade Police, and Dollar Tree for further comment, underscoring the ongoing scrutiny surrounding this tragic event.
