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Family Sues Okutsu Veterans Homes Over COVID-19 Death
News Source: Hawaii Tribute Herald
The family of Chris Drayer, a Vietnam War veteran who died from COVID-19 at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home, has filed a lawsuit against Avalon Health Care, the facility’s manager. The lawsuit, filed by Kona lawyer Jeffrey Foster on behalf of Drayer’s sons, alleges that Avalon’s substandard care and lack of health safety practices led to Drayer’s death. Foster criticized Avalon for failing to protect vulnerable residents and cited federal and state investigators’ findings of errors and omissions at the home that allowed the virus to spread.
Drayer’s death is among 27 at the veterans home attributed to COVID-19. The lawsuit claims that Avalon’s actions represent a systemic failure to implement and follow established protections for residents. Avalon has defended its response, stating that it followed guidance from health authorities during the pandemic.
The outbreak at Okutsu resulted in 71 residents and 35 employees testing positive for the virus. In response, the Department of Veterans Affairs mobilized a team of experts to help contain the spread. Foster stated that the families of the veterans have questions about what happened, and they will work to deliver answers and justice.
Chris Drayer, a recipient of the Bronze Star for heroic deeds in Vietnam, served two tours of duty. Following the outbreak, Avalon Health Care and the Hawaii Health Systems Corp. agreed to transfer management of the veterans home to East Hawaii HHSC, the public authority that operates Hilo Medical Center.
