Joecelyn Jefferson v. Walmart Inc.
Opinion
Trial Court Opinion
I. BACKGROUND
On August 15, 2024, Plaintiff Joecelyn Jefferson (“Plaintiff”) filed a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles against Walmart, Inc. (“Walmart” or “Defendant”) and Does 1 through 50, inclusive. (“Complaint,” Dkt. No. 1-1.) The Complaint alleges three causes of action: (1) negligence; (2) negligent hiring, retention, training, and supervision; and (3) premises liability. (See Complaint.) In the Complaint, Plaintiff alleges that a Walmart employee “recklessly and negligently rammed a top-cart into Plaintiffs head and body” causing “severe and permanent injuries.” (Id. ] 9.) On September 16, 2024, Walmart answered Plaintiff’s Complaint. (“Answer,” Dkt. No. 1-4.) On October 29, 2024, Plaintiff served Walmart with a statement of damages alleging $20,000,000 in general damages and $10,000,000 in special damages. (“Statement of Damages,” Motion Ex. 3, Dkt. No. 9-2.) On January 17, 2025, Walmart removed the action to this Court pursuant to diversity jurisdiction, 28 U.S.C. §§ 1332(a), 1441. (“Notice of Removal,” Dkt. No. 1.) Page 1 of CIVIL MINUTES—GENERAL Initials of Deputy Clerk mg