May 6, 2025

$10.5 Million Settlement in Central Florida Fatal Drowning of a Child in a Poll Under Construction

The Haggard Law Firm, led by Michael Haggard and Adam Finkel, successfully secured a $10.5 million settlement in a heartbreaking case involving the fatal drowning of a 5-year-old girl, Thamar Esperance, at a residential pool under construction in Apopka, Florida. 

 A Tragic, Preventable LossOn September 15, 2021, 5-year-old Thamar Esperance wandered away from her home in the Carriage Hill community just before dinner. She came across a residential pool that was under construction in her neighbor’s yard. Although the pool was filled with water, the construction site lacked a child safety barrier—a critical safety feature required to prevent these very tragedies. Without a fence to block her path, Thamar entered the pool area unnoticed and suffered a fatal drowning. By the time her family discovered what happened, it was too late.The loss of young Thamar was devastating for her family. She is survived by her grieving parents. 

Negligence and Accountability: Holding Responsible Parties LiableThe Haggard Law Firm took immediate action, investigating the case and filing a wrongful death lawsuit against multiple parties responsible for the tragedy. Those ultimately named as defendants included the general contractor, Southern Paradise Pools & Spas; the subcontractor, White Sands Pool Plastering; the homeowners’ association; the residential management company; and even a fence company that was contracted to build a fence around the neighbor’s property. The Haggard Law Firm’s legal team argued that the pool was negligently constructed without the required fence, creating a dangerous and foreseeable risk of harm. Despite the need for a safety barrier, the pool construction continued without the proper precautions in place to protect young children. 

Attorney Michael Haggard Photo
Managing Partner Michael Haggard
Attorney Adam Finkel Photo
Trial lawyer Adam Finkel

Justice for the Esperance Family: $10.5 Million Settlement

After extensive legal efforts, The Haggard Law Firm secured a $10.5 million settlement for the Esperance family. This settlement represents a significant victory for Thamar’s family and highlights the importance of holding negligent parties accountable for their actions. For more than 30 years, The Haggard Law Firm has been at the forefront of representing families in wrongful death and personal injury cases, especially those involving drownings and pool accidents. Our lawyers experience and dedication to justice have earned them the trust of hundreds of families across the country in this legal challenging and emotionally devastating cases. 

The Importance of Pool Safety: Preventing Future Tragedies

This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of pool safety, especially in construction zones. Florida, with its many pools, has strict regulations in place to ensure the safety of children around pools—particularly during construction. Pools must be properly secured with barriers to prevent unauthorized access.

 Contact The Haggard Law Firm for Legal Assistance 

If you or a loved one has been affected by a drowning or other pool-related accident, The Haggard Law Firm is here to help. With decades of experience in handling complex personal injury and wrongful death cases, our team can provide the legal expertise needed to fight for justice.Contact The Haggard Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how they can help you navigate your legal options.

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