A woman in Arizona made a shocking and horrifying discovery last week when she walked into the assisted living facility where her elderly uncle lived — and found his body sitting in a chair, already lifeless for days.
Angela Boorn told CBS Phoenix that her uncle, 75-year-old Gerald McClellan, had been dead inside LifeStream at Sun City for at least three or four days before anyone noticed. The facility is about 16 miles northwest of Phoenix.
Boorn, who considered McClellan like a second father, said she was devastated. “It looked like a skeleton in a chair,” she said. “The face — his eyes were hollowed out.”
She explained how she would always greet her uncle when she walked into his room, saying, “Uncle, I’m here.” But on Thursday, October 16, there was no response — and the grim reality set in.
Boorn immediately ran to the front desk, demanding answers. She says the executive director confirmed that staff had not checked on McClellan’s room since at least the previous weekend.
“I just can’t believe it,” Boorn said. She moved her uncle to LifeStream in January after his wife passed away, paying nearly $1,700 a month because she trusted the facility would care for him properly. Each room had a button that residents were supposed to press each morning to signal that they were okay.
“Every day by 10 a.m., a staff member was supposed to reach out or check on him,” Boorn said. “He didn’t push the button; they tried to call him, didn’t get a hold of him, and still did not check. It wasn’t one day, it wasn’t two days, it wasn’t three days, it was four.”
Boorn is speaking out so other families know what might be happening. “Nobody should have to see that. It didn’t even look like a person because he had been there for so long. People who do have family in there, check on your family member because clearly they’re not doing it.”
The facility issued a statement expressing condolences: “LifeStream at Sun City is deeply saddened by the passing of one of our residents. Our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to their family and loved ones during this difficult time. We extend our sincere gratitude to emergency responders for their compassion, professionalism, and support.”
At this time, it is unclear if Boorn plans to take legal action.
This is a developing story…
I would sue the outfit and staff for every last penny.
The home must answer.I have noticed how most staff in these places are always on there r phones.Ehen caring for elderly b people safety us mandatory and so checked should be done hourly
Despicable, but not surprising!!