Family of man found dead in Highland Park Reservoir sues city for $10.5M
Dec 19, 2024
Editor's Note: Post updated to reflect family is seeking $10.5 million.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — The family of the man whose body was found in the Highland Park Reservoir is suing the City of Rocester for wrongful death.
The lawsuit was filed last week by Mahamud Muya, accusing the city of failing to comply with federal rules regarding uncovered drinking water reservoirs. Mahamud alleges the city's failure led to the death of his brother, Abdullahi Muya.
Abdullahi went missing last February but was found dead below the surface of the reservoir in March.
Investigators revealed that on the morning of February 24, Abdullahi climbed the reservoir fence and slid down into the water. According to the lawsuit, Abdullahi suffered from mental health issues and was seen on the surveillance video talking to someone who didn't appear to be there.
Mayor Evans admitted the reservoir has cameras around the perimeter, some with heat and motion sensors, security and personnel were patrolling the area, and the fence has spikes on it — yet somehow Abdullahi hadn't been detected for four weeks.
The lawsuit accuses Mayor Evans and the City of failing to comply with the LT2 Rule, saying both the Highland Park Reservoir and Cobbs Hill Water Reservoir remain uncovered and unsafe, pointing out that the city requested two extensions to the deadlines to delay covering Highland, while spending money to cover the Rush Water Reservoir in 2012.
Mahamud Muya and his family are seeking $10.5 million, accusing the city of negligence, wrongful death, premises liability, and deprivation of federally secured rights.
News 8 has reached out to the City of Rochester for comment on this lawsuit. This story will be updated as more information is revealed.
Full Lawsuit
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