On April 24, 2024, Roberto Santiago Sr., a 57-year-old Hispanic male residing in North Philadelphia, experienced a medical emergency and activated his MedScope medical alert device to summon emergency medical services to his home. EMS personnel arrived at approximately 2:55 a.m. A neighbor informed them that Santiago was home and directed them to his residence. EMS personnel knocked on his door at 3:01 a.m., but there was no response because Santiago was incapacitated. They left several minutes later without attempting to forcibly enter his home.
Later that day, Santiago's son discovered his father's body on the floor of his home, still holding onto the medical device. The family alleges that EMS personnel failed to provide necessary assistance, leading to Santiago's death. A wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against the city of Philadelphia, claiming negligence and seeking compensatory and punitive damages.
The lawsuit has prompted calls for a full investigation into the policies and procedures of city emergency services. The city of Philadelphia has declined to comment on the lawsuit, citing ongoing litigation.
