Published on: February 21, 2026, 12:13h. 

Updated on: February 21, 2026, 12:13h.

• An estate is taking legal action against two hotels in Las Vegas
• The court filing alleges both establishments neglected to safeguard guests from Legionella bacteria

The estate of a man who succumbed to Legionnaires’ disease following a visit to Las Vegas claims that two off-Strip hotels are responsible for his passing.

According to a lawsuit lodged in Clark County District Court, the representatives of Gary Curtis Jones argue that both South Point Hotel Casino and The Grandview neglected their duty to keep patrons safe. The estate contends that Jones was infected with Legionnaires’ during his stay in Las Vegas, resulting in his death from the illness on April 2, 2023, at the age of 54.

Jones, who hailed from Alabama, was in Las Vegas for business. Although he had recently been diagnosed with cancer, he was deemed healthy enough to continue his professional and travel commitments.

During his visit, Jones resided at The Grandview from March 12-16 and the South Point from March 16-17. Both hotels are situated approximately 5.5 miles south of the Las Vegas Strip on S. Las Vegas Blvd.

Understanding Legionnaires’ Disease

Upon returning home, it is reported that Jones began to feel fatigued and exhibited “typical symptoms of Legionella infections.” Shortly thereafter, he lost the ability to speak and required oxygen support.

As reported by Casino.org in May 2025, Legionella bacteria, which leads to Legionnaires’ disease, was detected in several samples taken from both South Point and The Grandview in previous years. Health officials in Southern Nevada mandated that these hotels inform all patrons who stayed during the times positive samples were discovered.

Legionnaires’ disease, which is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella, manifests through symptoms such as cough, fever, headache, muscle pains, and shortness of breath. While most healthy individuals remain unaffected by Legionella, those with existing health issues or weakened immune systems are at a greater risk.

In critical cases, this illness can result in lung failure and death, but early treatment with antibiotics can be effective.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 10% of people diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease will succumb to complications related to the illness. Notably, about 25% of those who contract the disease during their stay in a healthcare facility may die from it.

Legionnaires’ disease was first identified in 1976 following an outbreak linked to an American Legion convention in Philadelphia, leading to multiple individuals being diagnosed.

Ongoing Health Struggles

The obituary of Jones recounts his long-standing battles with health issues.

“Despite enduring physical discomfort over the years, he always wore a smile and maintained a positive outlook,” the obituary states. “Curtis cherished his family and was known for his selflessness, kindness, and generosity, always ready to assist others. He transformed strangers into friends and friends into family.”

The lawsuit filed by his estate seeks a jury trial and wrongful death damages from both Las Vegas hotels.