By Dan Modlin/AP
Bowling Green, KY – Western Kentucky University has filed a motion
to dismiss a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the
aunt and mother of Katie Autry, who died after
being raped and burned in her dormitory room
in May. Two men, Lucas Goodrum and Stephen
Soules, are facing murder charges in connection
with Autry's death, but they are not named in the
lawsuit filed by Virginia White and Donnie Autry.
The suit filed by White and Mrs. Autry claims
the university, the WKU Student Life Foundation,
and several students employed in the residence hall
breached their duties by failing to provide adequate
security to the victim of the crimes.
Western Kentucky University has filed a motion to
dismiss the suit, citing government immunity.
Another issue to be determined is whether relatives
who don't provide material support for an individual
can recover damages in such a case. The suit
seeks compensation for medical expenses, lost
earnings, and pain and suffering.