Bronx, November 14, 2025
The family of 55-year-old Cynthia Vann has filed a $20 million wrongful death lawsuit against NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln after she was fatally assaulted by her hospital roommate. Vann, admitted for liver treatment, died from injuries sustained during the attack in September. Allegations include the hospital’s failure to protect her despite the assailant’s known violent history. The incident raises significant concerns regarding patient safety protocols in healthcare facilities.
New York City, NY
Family of Cynthia Vann Files $20 Million Lawsuit Against Lincoln Hospital Following Fatal Assault
The family of 55-year-old Cynthia Vann has initiated a $20 million wrongful death lawsuit against NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln after she was fatally assaulted by her hospital roommate in September. Vann was admitted to the Bronx facility for liver treatment when the attack occurred. Despite emergency surgery, she succumbed to her injuries on September 27. The medical examiner ruled her death a homicide caused by blunt force trauma. The lawsuit alleges that the hospital failed to protect Vann, noting that her roommate, Raquel Haughton, had a known history of violent behavior. Vann’s family claims they have not received any communication or condolences from the hospital. In response, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln stated their commitment to patient safety but did not provide further details. The incident has raised serious concerns about patient safety protocols within healthcare facilities.
Details of the Incident
On September 10, 2025, Cynthia Vann was attacked in her hospital room at Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx. While asleep, she was assaulted by her roommate, Raquel Haughton, 44, who reportedly punched Vann in the head multiple times. Vann required emergency surgery and remained in critical condition for two weeks before passing away from her injuries. The New York City Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Vann’s death was a homicide resulting from blunt force trauma. Haughton was arrested and charged with manslaughter and other assault-related offenses. The Vann family alleges that the hospital was aware of Haughton’s violent history but failed to prevent the attack.
Hospital’s Response
NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln has expressed its commitment to the safety of patients, staff, and visitors. However, the hospital has not provided specific details regarding the incident or the family’s allegations. The Vann family has criticized the hospital for its lack of communication and support following the tragedy.
Background on Raquel Haughton
Raquel Haughton, the alleged assailant, was a fellow patient at Lincoln Hospital during the incident. Prior to the attack on Vann, Haughton had been arrested for assaulting a hospital staff member and was later accused of attacking a nurse hours after Vann’s assault. Despite these incidents, she was placed in the same room as Vann. The Vann family contends that the hospital’s failure to address Haughton’s violent behavior contributed to the fatal outcome.
Implications for Patient Safety
This incident has highlighted significant concerns regarding patient safety protocols within healthcare facilities. The Vann family’s lawsuit underscores the need for hospitals to implement more stringent measures to protect patients from potential harm, especially when individuals with known violent histories are involved. The case has prompted discussions about the adequacy of current safety practices and the responsibilities of healthcare institutions in safeguarding their patients.
FAQ
What led to the lawsuit filed by Cynthia Vann’s family?
The family filed a $20 million wrongful death lawsuit against NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln after Cynthia Vann was fatally assaulted by her hospital roommate, Raquel Haughton, in September. The lawsuit alleges that the hospital failed to protect Vann, noting that Haughton had a known history of violent behavior.
What were the circumstances of the attack on Cynthia Vann?
On September 10, 2025, Cynthia Vann was attacked in her hospital room at Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx. While asleep, she was assaulted by her roommate, Raquel Haughton, 44, who reportedly punched Vann in the head multiple times. Vann required emergency surgery and remained in critical condition for two weeks before passing away from her injuries. The New York City Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Vann’s death was a homicide resulting from blunt force trauma.
How has NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln responded to the incident?
NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln has expressed its commitment to the safety of patients, staff, and visitors. However, the hospital has not provided specific details regarding the incident or the family’s allegations. The Vann family has criticized the hospital for its lack of communication and support following the tragedy.
What is known about Raquel Haughton’s history prior to the attack?
Raquel Haughton, the alleged assailant, was a fellow patient at Lincoln Hospital during the incident. Prior to the attack on Vann, Haughton had been arrested for assaulting a hospital staff member and was later accused of attacking a nurse hours after Vann’s assault. Despite these incidents, she was placed in the same room as Vann. The Vann family contends that the hospital’s failure to address Haughton’s violent behavior contributed to the fatal outcome.
What are the broader implications of this incident?
This incident has highlighted significant concerns regarding patient safety protocols within healthcare facilities. The Vann family’s lawsuit underscores the need for hospitals to implement more stringent measures to protect patients from potential harm, especially when individuals with known violent histories are involved. The case has prompted discussions about the adequacy of current safety practices and the responsibilities of healthcare institutions in safeguarding their patients.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Cynthia Vann, 55-year-old woman from New York City |
| Location | NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, Bronx, New York City |
| Incident Date | September 10, 2025 |
| Assailant | Raquel Haughton, 44-year-old hospital roommate |
| Cause of Death | Blunt force trauma to the head; ruled a homicide |
| Lawsuit | $20 million wrongful death lawsuit filed against the hospital |
| Hospital’s Response | Committed to patient safety; no further details provided |
| Assailant’s History | Known history of violent behavior; previous assaults on staff |
| Implications | Raised concerns about patient safety protocols in healthcare facilities |
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