San Angelo Woman Sues Shannon Over Slip-and-Fall Injury

SAN ANGELO, TX — A former surgical technician at Shannon Medical Center is suing the hospital, alleging she suffered severe injuries in a 2021 slip-and-fall accident caused by a slippery floor. 

Mirtha Chapoy filed suit in Tom Green County District Court against Shannon Medical Center, according to court documents in Cause No. B220025C. The incident occurred on or about July 27, 2021, while Chapoy worked as a surgical technician at the San Angelo hospital. 

According to the petition, the floor at the facility was coated with epoxy or a similar material. Hospital employees used a chemical to clean the floor, making it slippery. Chapoy alleges the hospital failed to provide slip-resistant mats, slip-resistant shoes or require their use, contributing to her fall. 

The lawsuit claims Shannon Medical Center did not subscribe to workers’ compensation insurance at the time, allowing Chapoy to pursue a non-subscriber negligence claim. It asserts premises liability and vicarious liability for the actions of the hospital’s employees and agents under the doctrine of respondeat superior. 

Chapoy alleges multiple failures by the hospital, including not providing a safe workplace, failing to inspect the area or warn of the hazardous condition, inadequate training and supervision, and not furnishing necessary safety equipment. 

As a result of the fall, Chapoy claims she suffered severe bodily injuries, incurred medical expenses, lost wages and earning capacity, and experienced pain, suffering, mental anguish, impairment and disfigurement. The petition seeks damages between $250,000 and $1 million, plus punitive damages for gross negligence, and requests a jury trial. 

Shannon Medical Center filed an original answer on Feb. 28, 2022, denying the allegations and demanding a jury trial.

The case is currently scheduled for a dismissal docket on June 10, 2026, at 1 p.m. before Judicial Officer Gonzalo Rios in Tom Green County District Court.