The Unthinkable: Robert Middleton v. Don Collins and the $150 Billion Burn Injury Award
Imagine enduring third-degree burns over 99% of your body. For Robbie Middleton, this wasn’t a nightmare, but a horrific reality inflicted on his eighth birthday. The subsequent legal battle, Robert Middleton v. Don Collins (2014), culminated in a staggering $150 billion award in damages, a sum that, while largely symbolic, speaks volumes about the gravity of the crime and the pursuit of justice. This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of burn injuries and the complexities of seeking legal recourse.
A Childhood Stolen: The Heinous Crime
On June 28, 1998, Robbie Middleton’s life was irrevocably altered. Lured into the woods near his home in Splendora, Texas, he was doused in gasoline and set ablaze. His attacker was Don Collins, a 13-year-old neighbor. Robbie miraculously survived the initial assault, but the damage was catastrophic. He suffered third-degree burns across nearly his entire body, requiring over 150 surgeries and skin grafts throughout his short life.
The attack occurred two weeks after Collins allegedly sexually assaulted Middleton. Prosecutors later argued that the arson was an attempt to silence Robbie and prevent him from revealing the abuse.
A Fight for Justice: The Civil Trial
Despite identifying Collins as his attacker, the initial criminal investigation stalled, and charges were dropped due to “insufficient evidence”. Frustrated by the lack of progress, Robbie’s parents, Colleen and Robert Middleton, pursued a civil case against Collins.
In December 2011, a Fayette County jury heard Robbie’s videotaped testimony, recorded shortly before his death. Severely scarred and disfigured, Robbie recounted the horrific events of that day, identifying Collins as the perpetrator. The jury was also presented with testimony from burn surgeons who described Robbie’s injuries as the worst they had ever seen.
The jury sided with the Middletons, awarding them an unprecedented $150 billion in damages. This was the largest personal injury award in U.S. history. However, it was understood by all parties that the award was largely symbolic. The goal was to bring attention to the fact that Collins had never been prosecuted for this horrific crime.
The Criminal Trial: A Long-Delayed Verdict
Following the civil trial and the massive publicity it generated, the Montgomery County District Attorney’s office reopened the criminal investigation. In 2013, Don Collins, then 28 years old, was charged with murder.
The defense argued that there was insufficient evidence to prove Collins was responsible for Robbie’s death, pointing to the fact that Robbie initially identified another boy as his attacker. However, prosecutors presented Robbie’s deathbed video testimony, along with evidence that Collins had sexually assaulted Robbie prior to the attack.
In February 2015, a Galveston County jury found Don Collins guilty of murder. He was sentenced to 40 years in prison.
Burn Injuries: A Devastating Reality
The Middleton v. Collins case highlights the devastating impact of burn injuries. Burns can cause:
- Severe pain and suffering: Burn injuries are among the most painful injuries a person can experience.
- Disfigurement and scarring: Burns can leave permanent scars and disfigurement, leading to emotional distress and psychological trauma.
- Infection: Burns damage the skin’s protective barrier, increasing the risk of infection.
- Long-term medical complications: Severe burns can lead to a variety of long-term medical complications, including skin cancer, as was the case with Robbie Middleton.
Seeking Legal Recourse for Burn Injuries
If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury due to the negligence or intentional act of another, you may be entitled to compensation. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.
Types of Burn Injury Lawsuits:
- Workplace Burns: Burns suffered due to unsafe working conditions, lack of proper safety equipment, or inadequate training.
- Product Liability: Burns caused by defective products, such as faulty electrical appliances or flammable clothing.
- Premises Liability: Burns sustained on someone else’s property due to their negligence, such as faulty wiring or unsafe heating systems.
- Medical Malpractice: Burns resulting from medical procedures, such as improper use of surgical equipment or chemical burns from medications.
- Automobile Accidents: Burns from car accidents, often due to vehicle fires or explosions.
Factors Affecting Burn Injury Settlements:
- Severity of the burn: The more severe the burn, the higher the potential settlement.
- Extent of the burn: The larger the area of the body affected by the burn, the higher the potential settlement.
- Medical expenses: The cost of medical treatment, including surgeries, skin grafts, and rehabilitation, will be factored into the settlement.
- Lost wages: If the burn injury prevents you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
- Pain and suffering: You may be entitled to compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the burn injury.
The Lasting Impact
The Robert Middleton v. Don Collins case is a tragic reminder of the lasting impact of violence and the importance of seeking justice for victims. While the $150 billion award was symbolic, it served as a powerful statement about the value of Robbie Middleton’s life and the need to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. The case also underscores the importance of burn injury prevention and the need for adequate legal representation for burn victims.
If you or someone you know has suffered a burn injury, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention and consult with a qualified attorney to explore your legal options.