ST. LOUIS, Mo. — A Missouri family has filed a lawsuit against a caregiver and a care organization following the death of a 57-year-old man with a developmental disability who choked on a meal he allegedly should never have been left alone to eat.
According to court documents, James Showmaker, who had Prader-Willi syndrome, died after being given a turkey burger and fries by a caregiver who then left him unattended, despite strict supervision requirements in his care plan.
The incident occurred on June 20, 2025, at a residential care home in the St. Louis area. The lawsuit alleges that caregiver Tara Whitehead, who was working as fill-in staff, provided Showmaker with the meal and left the room, violating explicit instructions that he must be closely monitored while eating.
Showmaker’s individualized care plan reportedly required caregivers to ensure he ate slowly—often by counting between bites—due to his condition, which significantly increases the risk of choking.
Shortly after being left alone, Showmaker began choking.
According to the lawsuit, when Whitehead returned and observed him in distress, she allegedly told him to “go throw it up” rather than immediately intervening or calling for help.
Medical experts note that individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome often cannot vomit easily, making such advice ineffective and potentially dangerous.
By the time emergency services were contacted, critical time had already been lost. The lawsuit further claims the caregiver delayed responders by failing to unlock the door, preventing first responders from reaching Showmaker quickly.
Showmaker was deprived of oxygen for an extended period and was later declared brain-dead at the hospital. After several days on life support, his family made the decision to remove him from life-sustaining treatment.
The lawsuit describes the incident as a terrifying and painful ordeal that could have been prevented with proper supervision.
Prader-Willi syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by:
- An intense drive to eat (hyperphagia)
- Reduced muscle tone, including in the throat
- Increased risk of choking when eating too quickly
Because of these risks, individuals with the condition often require strict supervision during meals, including controlled portions and support to slow eating.
The family’s lawsuit accuses both the caregiver and the care provider organization of negligence. It claims:
- The caregiver was not properly trained
- She had not reviewed Showmaker’s care plan
- The organization failed to ensure adequate oversight of staff
The suit argues that the facility negligently trains and supervises employees responsible for vulnerable individuals.
Representatives for the organization have declined to comment publicly, citing ongoing litigation.
The case has raised concerns about staffing, training, and accountability in residential care facilities for individuals with disabilities. Advocates say the tragedy underscores the importance of strict adherence to care plans and proper staff preparation.
For Showmaker’s family, the lawsuit is about accountability.
“James never should have died in this way,” the legal filing states.