The Sparks City Council is expected to consider a $2 million settlement for Maureen Hvegholm, an 84-year-old woman who alleged she suffered a brain injury after being pushed to the ground by a Sparks firefighter.
The proposed settlement, listed for discussion and possible action on the May 28 city council agenda, follows a settlement conference held earlier this month between the two parties.
Hvegholm’s lawsuit claims that firefighter Timothy Egan grabbed her shoulders and “performed a sweep maneuver on her feet,” causing her to fall headfirst onto the concrete. She was subsequently taken to Renown Hospital and diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury.
The incident occurred while Hvegholm was feeding stray cats in the alley behind her house, leading to a confrontation with firefighters who claimed the activity caused damage to their equipment.
An independent report—released only after Hvegholm’s family sued for it—revealed that Egan violated four city of Sparks administrative rules, Sparks Fire Department rules, and two sections of Nevada law. The report found “clear and convincing” evidence of Egan’s violations of Nevada Revised Statutes, though it does not constitute probable cause. Egan has not been charged with a crime.
In response, Sparks officials stated that “appropriate action” was taken against Egan, who remains employed by the Sparks Fire Department. The specific disciplinary actions were not disclosed.
The city council meeting is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28 at Sparks City Hall, located at 745 4th St.