In a heartbreaking incident, Kody Townsend, a 10-year-old boy with special needs, tragically died after choking on food at Clissold Elementary School in Chicago.
The Townsend family is now filing a lawsuit against Chicago Public Schools (CPS), the Board of Education, and the city of Chicago, alleging that the school’s failure to supervise Kody violated his Individual Education Plan (IEP) and ultimately led to his death.
Details of the Incident and Alleged Negligence
Kody Townsend, a student at Clissold Elementary, had a history of seizures and developmental delays, which were outlined in his IEP, a document that details the support and supervision a child with special needs should receive.
The lawsuit claims that Kody was not properly supervised during lunchtime, in direct violation of his care plan, and that the school staff failed to respond promptly and appropriately when he began choking.
The family’s legal team alleges that the school’s lack of response worsened the situation, and Kody was rushed to the hospital, where he later died.
His parents, Travis and Lakeisha Jones-Townsend, are devastated by the loss, with Lakeisha stating, “No parent should send their kid to school and not see them the next.” The lawsuit accuses the school of negligence and calls for accountability from the staff involved.
A Family’s Grief and Desperation for Justice
In the aftermath of Kody’s death, his parents are not only grieving but are also seeking answers. Lakeisha Jones-Townsend said, “I want his story to be heard, and I want people and staff to be held accountable.” She emphasized the importance of ensuring that what happened to Kody is not ignored or overlooked.
Travis Townsend, Kody’s father, expressed his heartache, saying, “I loved my son Kody. I miss him dearly—we all miss him dearly.” The emotional impact of losing their son has been immeasurable, with the family left to process the tragic loss of a child who was described as the heart of their home.
Kody’s Legacy and Family’s Tribute
The Townsend family described Kody as a joyful and nurturing child with a big personality. According to a GoFundMe campaign created to raise funds for Kody’s funeral, Kody was the second-oldest of four siblings and had just turned 10 on August 5.
The campaign has raised over $6,000 to help with funeral expenses. The family fondly remembered Kody’s love for drawing, basketball, cooking, and planting, and especially his passion for sports, often playing with his father and watching Sunday football.
Despite his challenges, Kody did not let his disabilities define him. The family shared that Kody was known for being protective of his younger sister, always showing kindness and compassion. His family also highlighted how Kody worked hard to overcome speech difficulties and always strived to communicate and express himself.
On the day of the incident, the Townsend family shared that they were able to spend one last moment with Kody before his passing. The GoFundMe campaign states, “We felt he had gained his wings that late afternoon after he had sung and danced with our Heavenly Father.” This message offers a touching tribute to Kody’s memory.
The Family’s Ongoing Legal Battle
The Townsend family’s lawsuit remains ongoing as they seek accountability from Chicago Public Schools and the school district involved. They are demanding justice and answers about the circumstances that led to Kody’s death. This tragic event has left the family devastated, with Kody’s siblings also heartbroken by the loss of their older brother.
The family’s desire for justice is clear, with Lakeisha stating, “This tragic event has left our family devastated. His siblings are heartbroken, and we are left with an unimaginable void.”
The lawsuit represents the family’s effort to ensure that Kody’s story is heard, and that the school district is held accountable for the negligence they believe contributed to his untimely death.