A woman in Florida is taking legal action against her former apartment complex after claiming she lost two toes due to spider bites sustained in her home. Patricia Shields alleges that she suffered repeated bites from spiders at Grand Oak Apartments in Largo, Florida, leading to infections that required amputation.
Shields told local news that she first noticed spiders two weeks after moving into the apartment in November. “I kept getting bit over and over and over again. It was always in the bathroom,” she said. She developed oozing wounds and swelling, eventually seeking medical help at an urgent care centre, where staff called an ambulance. At hospital, doctors informed her that amputation was necessary to save her foot.
“The doctor came in and he goes, ‘We have to or you're going to end up losing your whole foot or your leg,’” Shields recalled. “I thought it was a joke.” She is now suing the apartment complex and other defendants for negligence, stating she reported the spider issue multiple times to management but they either dismissed her complaints or failed to respond effectively. On one occasion, when she asked to be released from her lease, they refused.
Shields, who is on disability and relies on Section 8 housing, said her accommodation options are limited. She had previously lived in a cottage home but lost it to Hurricane Helene months before moving to Grand Oak. “I just want everything settled. I really just want to go back to my life,” she said.
The defendants have denied the allegations, asserting they are not responsible for the injuries and damages claimed. The Independent has sought comment from Grand Oak Apartments.
