Top

Family of Teen Killed When Drunk Driver Crashed Through Home Files Lawsuit Against Bar

DALLAS -- The attorneys of the trial firm Lyons & Simmons, LLP have filed suit on behalf of the family whose daughter was killed when a drunk driver slammed through their White Settlement, Texas, home in August 2022.

Katey Kirkland, 18, was killed when a truck driven by Donald Gruber and Peggy Cox left the roadway, crashing through the family’s home. Her father, Kevin Kirkland, is still recovering from injuries he sustained in the incident. Gruber and Cox have been criminally charged with intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault, and manslaughter, respectively.

According to the lawsuit, despite being “obviously intoxicated” Gruber and Cox were continued to be served alcohol by employees of The Point on Lake Worth and then allowed to leave the premises driving a heavy truck with an attached trailer. A Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission investigation is ongoing.

“Just as alcohol and driving are a deadly combination, so too is the combination of improperly trained bar employees and serving someone who is obviously intoxicated,” said the Kirkland family’s attorney Michael Lyons of Lyons & Simmons.

“We look forward to the development of this case. What’s apparent is that these were two people who were far past the point where any alcohol service should have been cut off. If it had, then this family would be looking forward to Katey’s high school graduation rather than continuing to mourn the death of their only child.”

The lawsuit is Amy Kirkland, individually, and as Next Friend of Kevin Kirkland v. The Point on Lake Worth, LLC, Wildcat Canyon, LLC, Woods Inlet, LLC F/K/A Wood Inlet Corp., Donald Gruber and Peggy Cox, Cause No. 342-340639-23 in Tarrant County, Texas.

About Lyons & Simmons, LLP

Dallas-based Lyons & Simmons, LLP is a trial boutique representing clients in wrongful death, personal injury, products liability, and complex “bet-the-company” business litigation matters across the country.

Media Contact:
Rhonda Reddick
800-559-4534
rhonda@androvett.com

What We Stand For. What We Deliver.

  • Client-Focused Attention

    As a boutique law firm, you receive personalized attention from attorneys with the resources you would expect from a large law firm. Our mission is to provide representation on par with, if not better than, that of any corporation and give you the best chance to win in the civil justice system.

  • Aggressive Representation

    Our highly skilled trial lawyers are fearless about going to battle for our clients. When the opposition pushes back, we push back harder. We are determined to end your case with the best possible result. 

  • A National Reputation

    Our firm has successfully tried life-altering wrongful death and personal injury cases throughout Texas and nationwide. We have earned a reputation for taking on—and winning—complex, high-exposure cases.

  • Customized Legal Strategies

    No two cases are exactly alike. We provide each of our clients with customized legal strategies and litigation solutions tailored to their unique needs.

When The Result Means Everything™

let us make a difference
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Lyons & Simmons, LLP at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy
Address
2101 Cedar Springs Road
Suite 1900
Dallas, TX 75201
Map & Directions
Follow Us