Robert Carradine's family sues UCLA hospital, says staff did not prevent self-harm before his death
WESTWOOD, LOS ANGELES -- The family of late actor Robert Carradine has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the University of California Regents and UCLA Medical Center.
The 71-year old "Revenge of the Nerds" star suffered from bipolar disorder and checked himself into UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Westwood back in February after he admitted he had "suicidal thoughts," according to a report from the L.A. Times. The lawsuit says he died about 19 hours after checking into the facility.
RELATED: Robert Carradine, 'Revenge of the Nerds' and 'Lizzie McGuire' actor, dies at 71
The lawsuit, which was filed on Aug. 7, argues Carradine's death was preventable, saying the psychiatric care team did not take proper measures to prevent self-harm -- including removing his belt. The lawsuit claims the staff was reckless in its care and committed elder abuse and neglect.
The lawsuit also claims the staff was distracted during Carradine's time there and that they falsified care records.
The 27-page suit names the UC Regents as defendants, along with physicians, nurses, clinical care partners and other officials, according to the L.A. Times. The plaintiffs include Carradine's estate and his surviving children.
SEE ALSO: 'Lizzie McGuire' stars remember Robert Carradine after his death at 71
The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified general and wrongful-death damages and compensation for medical expenses incurred during Carradine's hospitalization.
Carradine was best known for his role in the 80's "Revenge of the Nerds" franchise. He later played Hillary Duff's father in the Disney series "Lizzie McGuire."
If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or are worried about a friend or loved one, help is available. Call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 for free, confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
