Intent to Sue Filed in Pennsylvania Hospital Roof Death

The son of an 89-year-old dementia patient who died after being found on a hospital’s roof has preserved the right to sue the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Attorney Rob Peirce says Roderick Diggs wants to know exactly what led to the death of Rose Lee Diggs on Dec. 3. She died after being found on the roof of UPMC Montefiore hospital in a gown and slippers in 23-degree weather.

Police haven’t determined if criminal charges will be filed. They believe Diggs wandered from her room the night before, through a fire door and up some steps to a rooftop door.

The document filed Tuesday in Allegheny County doesn’t detail allegations, but preserves the right to file a complaint in the future.

A hospital spokesman says UPMC is cooperating with investigators.

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Information from: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review