Stephen Gougeon, a 38-year-old Canadian, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit seeking nearly $7 million in damages following the tragic deaths of his wife and 8-year-old son. The family had just arrived at a resort in the Dominican Republic when the incident occurred. Gougeon’s wife, April, 41, and their son, Oliver, fell ill and died within 24 hours of consuming food from the resort’s buffet. The lawsuit was filed on January 27.
The family had embarked on the trip with the intention of enjoying some downtime. Gougeon expressed his grief and shock through his attorney, stating that he had lost his beloved wife and his son, whose growth and development he had been eagerly anticipating.
The lawsuit implicates Wyndham Hotels and Air Transat. A spokesperson for Air Transat expressed deep sorrow over the incident but denied the allegations. The company stated that it had supported the Gougeon family during the ordeal and assured that it selects its suppliers carefully. The hotel operator has pledged full cooperation with the authorities in investigating the deaths.
Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, however, has not yet responded to requests for comment. The Gougeon family had traveled to the Dominican Republic with their two sons, Oliver and Wesley, on December 29, 2023. After dining at the Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham Resort’s buffet, they fell ill. Despite seeking medical help at the resort’s clinic, their conditions deteriorated.
According to a coroner’s report from the Dominican Republic, April and Oliver’s deaths were due to secondary causes related to food poisoning. The lawsuit alleges that the resort’s food preparation areas were unsanitary, there was a lack of prompt medical evaluation and treatment, and the staff was inadequately trained to handle emergencies.
Gougeon criticized the resort’s response to their pleas for help, stating that their calls were not taken seriously and there was confusion about how to handle the situation. “These delays cost precious time that could have been used to treat our illness. And in the end, it cost my wife and my son their lives,” he lamented.
Meghan Hull Jacquin, the attorney representing the Gougeon family, expressed shock at the extent of negligence in the case. She emphasized that the family’s tragic experience should serve as a wake-up call for the industry to improve its processes and procedures to ensure the safety of vacationers.
April was remembered as a devoted mother and a nurturing spirit who was always ready to help others in need. She was a talented lawyer who found her greatest joy in her family. Oliver was described as a sensitive spirit with a kind heart and a remarkable talent for art. His obituary highlighted his individuality, his love for drawing and sketching, and his close bond with his brother Wesley.