In a dramatic turn of events, a Pennsylvania resident has filed a lawsuit following a terrifying encounter with an unleashed dog. The complaint was lodged by Rogelio Garth on May 8, 2025, in the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas against Modern Auto Crafters, Inc., Modern Auto Rentals, Inc., Pete Kathopoulis, and unnamed individuals referred to as John Doe 1-10.
The incident occurred on October 28, 2024, when Garth was walking along the sidewalk near the property managed by the defendants at 120 Church Lane in Upper Darby. According to the court documents, Garth was suddenly chased by a dog belonging to the defendants. In his attempt to escape the aggressive animal, he fell and sustained a low back fracture. The plaintiff claims that the defendants failed in their duty to control their dog adequately and violated state laws requiring dogs to be leashed in public spaces.
Garth's legal representative, Ethan R. Feldman from Morgan & Morgan PLLC, argues that Modern Auto Crafters and Modern Auto Rentals are responsible for managing the property where the incident took place and should have ensured that their dog did not pose a threat to passersby. Furthermore, Pete Kathopoulis is named as an individual defendant due to his role as president of these companies. The complaint accuses all parties of negligence for failing to train or restrain the dog properly and allowing it off-leash despite knowing its propensity for aggression.
The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages exceeding $50,000 for medical expenses incurred by Garth due to his injuries, pain and suffering endured during recovery, lost wages from missed workdays, and ongoing physical agony. Additionally, Garth requests interest on any awarded amount along with costs associated with pre-judgment delays.
Representing Rogelio Garth is attorney Ethan R. Feldman from Morgan & Morgan PLLC. The case has been filed under ID No. D16E7B7D-0566-4B00-BA62-43890BE66F91 in Delaware County Court of Common Pleas' Civil Trial Division.