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Credit: Inside the MagicA family vacation to Central Florida is supposed to be filled with milestones, photos, and moments that last a lifetime. For many families, destinations like Disney Springs represent a place to unwind after long days at the parks, share a meal, and celebrate being together.
That sense of safety and familiarity is part of what draws millions of visitors each year. When tragedy strikes in a setting known for hospitality and careful planning, it raises difficult questions not only for those directly affected, but for every guest who expects prompt help when something goes wrong.
That reality is now at the center of a wrongful death lawsuit involving a 42-year-old Ocala father who died after choking on a steak at a popular Disney Springs restaurant. The case has drawn attention across Central Florida and beyond, not only because of where it occurred, but because of the broader conversation it sparks about emergency preparedness in high-traffic theme park dining locations.
A Family Trip That Turned Tragic
Kevin Duncan was in Orlando last June for his daughter’s dance competition. Like many parents in similar situations, he joined a large group of friends and family for dinner at The Boathouse, a well-known waterfront restaurant at Disney Springs.
According to the lawsuit filed by Morgan & Morgan on behalf of Duncan’s mother, Reah Duncan, the evening took a sudden turn when Duncan began choking during the meal per Florida Politics.
Family members and friends attempted to help, including trying the Heimlich maneuver, but were unsuccessful. The complaint alleges that restaurant staff did not immediately call 911 and instead contacted security first, causing a delay in emergency medical services being dispatched.
Allegations of Delayed Emergency Response
By the time first responders arrived, emergency medical personnel reported that Duncan had been “down” for approximately 25 minutes. He was transported to AdventHealth Celebration, where he died two days later on June 9 after suffering a severe brain injury due to lack of oxygen.
The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office signed the death certificate but did not conduct an autopsy. According to attorneys representing the family, the lack of immediate medical intervention is a central issue in the case.
Questions About Training and Safety Protocols
In a statement, Morgan & Morgan founder John Morgan and attorney Edward Combs said serious questions remain about how the situation was handled, what safety protocols were in place, and whether employees were properly trained to respond to a choking emergency. The lawsuit seeks accountability and answers for what the family believes may have been a preventable loss of life.
The Boathouse has filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit. The restaurant and its attorney declined to comment publicly, and requests for emergency call records have not yet been fulfilled.
Remembering Kevin Duncan Beyond the Lawsuit
Those who knew Duncan remember him as far more than the circumstances surrounding his death. He worked in his family’s air conditioning business, was a father of three, and was described in his obituary as deeply devoted to his faith and family.
He loved the outdoors and found joy in boating, fishing, and exploring trails. Friends described him as dependable, hands-on, and happiest when surrounded by nature and the people he loved most.
Legal Action Moves to Federal Court
Morgan & Morgan initially filed the wrongful death lawsuit in Orange Circuit Court in October before refiling the case in federal court on New Year’s Eve. Disney is not named as a defendant in the case.
The lawsuit has added to broader scrutiny surrounding emergency response practices at major entertainment and dining venues that serve thousands of guests each day.
A Series of Recent Deaths at Disney Properties
The new federal filing comes during a period of heightened attention on Disney World following multiple reported deaths on resort property in recent months. Incidents have included medical emergencies and deaths that authorities said were under investigation as suicides.
Disney and another Disney Springs restaurant, Raglan Road, are also facing a separate lawsuit from a widower whose wife died after a severe allergic reaction in 2023.
Latest Incident at Disney Springs
Most recently, law enforcement confirmed it was investigating a death at a Disney Springs parking garage after a man was found unresponsive. Officials have not released further details, but the discovery added to public concern about safety and emergency response at one of the most visited destinations in the world.
Disney Springs is an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex open to the public, with no ticket required for entry or parking. Its accessibility makes it popular with both tourists and local residents, and also raises expectations around preparedness for emergencies.
What This Means for Theme Park Visitors
For visitors, these stories are unsettling reminders that emergencies can happen anywhere, even in places designed for joy and relaxation. For operators, they highlight the importance of clear protocols, immediate action, and staff training when seconds matter.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available through organizations like Lifeline, Beyond Blue, Kids Helpline, Headspace, and 13YARN.
If you are planning a visit to Disney Springs or any major theme park destination, take a moment to think about safety alongside fun. Know where you are, speak up quickly if something feels wrong, and do not hesitate to ask staff to call 911 immediately.
And if your family is left searching for answers after a tragedy, speaking with an experienced legal professional can help you understand what accountability looks like and what steps come next.