A Florida woman has launched a legal battle against her former apartment complex, alleging that their failure to address a severe spider infestation directly led to her suffering multiple bites, a serious infection, and the eventual amputation of two of her toes.
A Horrifying Ordeal in the Bathroom
Patricia Shields filed a negligence claim against the Grand Oak Apartments in Largo on November 25, seeking damages in excess of $50,000. Shields told local news outlet WTSP that she endured several burning and painful spider bites, often while in the bathroom of her apartment. "That was horrifying. I was never so scared in my life," she recounted.
The situation escalated when the bites led to a severe infection. Medical professionals were ultimately forced to amputate two of Shields's toes to prevent further health complications. "It looks ridiculous," Shields said tearfully. "It's embarrassing, and I hate having to explain myself all the time."
Claims of Ignored Complaints and a Denied Release
Central to the lawsuit is Shields's assertion that she reported the dangerous spider infestation to the apartment management on multiple occasions, only to be dismissed. "They threw them away or blew me off," she claimed. Her frustration peaked when, after asking to be released from her lease mutual agreement, management reportedly refused.
Shields, who is on disability and had her previous home flooded by Hurricane Helene, explained that her living options were limited, having been granted Section 8 housing. "It's been a long year," she said. "I have begged office management... I just want it to be over and everything settled so I can go back to my life."
Legal Denials and a Wider Warning
In response to the allegations, the defendants have denied responsibility. According to the complaint cited by WTSP, they claim the complaints fail ‘to plead with specificity’ and that they are not liable for the damages sought by Shields.
This alarming case comes amid wider concerns about dangerous spider bites in holiday destinations. Tourists in Spanish hotspots have recently been warned about bites from the Mediterranean violin spider, which can cause severe tissue necrosis. One 60-year-old woman in Menorca was bitten in September, while a separate incident in 2024 saw a 32-year-old woman nearly lose her leg after a bite required life-saving surgery.
Biologist Guillem Pons emphasised the urgency of seeking medical help if bitten, noting the spiders are common and bites can occur anywhere, even in bathrooms—echoing the terrifying experience described by Patricia Shields in Florida.
