The tragic loss of Mr. Bob Pollmann has underscored serious safety lapses in assisted living facilities. ABC Channel 15 investigative reporter Anne Ryman spoke with G&K attorneys Bob Boatman and Tim Newman, who represent Mr. Pollmann’s family in a wrongful death lawsuit against the Scottsdale facility responsible for his care.
Mr. Pollmann, an Alzheimer’s resident at a private assisted living facility in north Scottsdale, was able to exit the home unnoticed in June 2024 due to the facility’s failure to maintain required safety measures, including functional locks and door chimes. Staff did not realize he was missing for 40 minutes—during which time he wandered into the blistering 117-degree heat.
Family, friends, neighbors, and Scottsdale police launched a search effort, using drones to aid in the rescue. However, the extreme temperatures rendered thermal imaging ineffective. Nearly two days later, Mr. Pollmann was tragically found deceased from heat exposure.
The facility had a documented history of non-compliance, including prior citations for unsecured doors. Despite knowing Mr. Pollmann’s risk of wandering, they failed to implement the necessary precautions. His family had moved him to the smaller facility expecting more personalized care. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, Mr. Pollmann remained active and engaged, recently celebrating Father’s Day with his loved ones.
The lawsuit seeks to hold the facility accountable and bring attention to the dangers of elopement—an ongoing risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Mr. Pollmann’s family hopes their case will lead to stronger regulations and better enforcement to protect vulnerable residents.
It’s a death that never should have happened. So the fact that they went 40 minutes before even noticing he’s gone just compounds the tragedy.
Bob Boatman, attorney for the Pollmann family
Our firm remains dedicated to seeking justice for the Pollmann family and advocating for systemic changes to prevent future tragedies. Every elderly resident deserves safety, dignity, and proper care—and facilities must be held accountable when they fail to uphold these standards.
Robert W. Boatman has over 39 years of experience in personal injury and wrongful death law. Bob remains unwavering in his commitment to achieving justice for every client. From the initial meeting, his approachable demeanor fosters trust, reflecting his genuine compassion and ability to connect with people from all backgrounds. This straightforward, empathetic approach has also proven highly effective in resonating with juries during trials.
Timothy S. Newman focuses his practice on civil and commercial litigation. In his civil practice, Tim handles catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death matters arising from motor vehicle accidents, negligence, liquor liability, and medical malpractice. In his commercial practice, Tim draws on his experience as an MBA/CPA to counsel clients through business disputes, tax audits, contract negotiations, and breach of contract.
related news coverage
- Family files lawsuit after man wanders away from Scottsdale care facility, dies in desert | ABC15.com
- Arizona care facility fined $500 after grandfather walks out, dies in the desert | ABC15.com
- Missing man found deceased in Scottsdale | 12News.com
- Man found dead after going missing from Scottsdale assisted living facility | KTAR.com
- Body found in Scottsdale, believed to be missing 85-year-old Brookhaven Assisted Living resident | Fox10Phoenix.com
- Seniors are wandering away from Arizona care facilities and dying in the heat | ABC15.com
Media Contact
For media inquiries, please contact:
Anna Walp
Marketing Manager
Tel: (602) 530-8019
Email: anna.walp@gknet.com