Duquesne Light Company has taken legal action against two individuals, alleging negligence and seeking damages for property damage. The complaint was filed by Duquesne Light Company in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, on March 3, 2025, naming Espoire Assan and Akongwa Bahige as defendants.
According to the complaint, Duquesne Light Company accuses Espoire Assan of operating a vehicle negligently on April 18, 2023, resulting in a collision with a utility pole owned by the company. The incident occurred at or near 11 Linshaw Avenue in Ingram, Pennsylvania. The plaintiff claims that Assan failed to maintain control of the vehicle and drove carelessly, causing significant damage to their property. Furthermore, Duquesne Light asserts that the vehicle involved was owned by Akongwa Bahige and alleges negligent entrustment on his part for allowing Assan to operate it without proper insurance or ensuring safe operation.
The complaint outlines specific allegations against Assan, including failing to keep a lookout while driving, not maintaining proper control over the vehicle, driving at an unsafe speed, and operating an uninsured vehicle. As a result of these actions, Duquesne Light claims they incurred expenses totaling $7,010.29 for repairs to their utility pole and electric facilities.
Duquesne Light seeks judgment against both defendants for the stated amount along with interest and any additional relief deemed appropriate by the court. They argue that Bahige's negligence in entrusting his vehicle to Assan contributed to the incident and resulting damages.
The case is being handled by attorney Lauren N. Rulli from Duquesne Light Company. It is filed under Case No.: CVPDD008S359F466 in the Civil Division-Arbitration section of the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County. The hearing is scheduled before a board of arbitrators at the Compulsory Arbitration Center in Pittsburgh.