HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-8180RALPH HAWK and IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
BARBARA HAWK, OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs ==
V. NO. l l - 8180 CIVIL TERM = =
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HARRY NAZZARO CIVIL ACTION-LAW
Defendant
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NOTICE
You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in
the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this complaint
and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by an attorney
and filing in writing with the court, your defenses or objections to the claims set forth
against you. You are warned that if you fail to do so, the case may proceed without you
and a judgment may be entered against you by the court without further notice for any
money claimed in the complaint or for any other claim or relief requested by the plaintiff.
You may lose money or property or other rights important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO
NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE
OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW. THIS OFFICE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH
INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER.
IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE
TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER
LEGAL SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
(717) 249-3166
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RALPH HAWK and
BARBARA HAWK,
Plaintiffs
V.
HARRY NAZZARO,
Defendant
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. I I-, V 1V "b CIVIL TERM
CIVIL ACTION-LAW
COMPLAINT
AND NOW, come Ralph Hawk and Barbara Hawk, by and through their attorney,
Michael A. Scherer, Esquire, and respectfully represents as follows:
1. The plaintiffs are Ralph Hawk and Barbara Hawk (hereinafter "Hawks"),
husband and wife, who are residents of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and own
real estate located at 407 Third Street, New Cumberland, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania (hereinafter "Hawk property").
2. The defendant is Harry Nazzaro (hereinafter "Nazzaro"), a resident of
Cumberland County, who owns real estate located at 409 Third Street, New
Cumberland, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania (hereinafter "Nazzaro property")
3. The Hawk property and Nazzaro property together form a duplex with a
common center wall, including an interior brick masonry party foundation wall in the
basement (hereinafter "basement party foundation wall"), which wall serves to separate
the Hawk and Nazzaro basements.
4. The basement party foundation wall served as an interior bearing wall
which supported the tributary areas of the first and second floor structures of both
residences.
5. Over the last several years Nazzaro had made certain modifications to his
property, including the removal of a side porch, which left several open holes in the
exposed portions of the exterior stone masonry foundation walls at the level of the
finished exterior grade.
6. In addition, an exterior basement stairway to the Nazzaro property was
covered only by OSB board, leaving an opening for water to flow from grade into the
Nazzaro basement.
7. On April 28, 2011, heavy rains in the New Cumberland, Pennsylvania area
resulted in large amounts of surface water rapidly entering the basement of the Nazzaro
property through the open holes and exterior basement stairwell mentioned in
paragraphs five and six above.
8. Eventually the water entering the Nazzaro basement filled to the level
where the basement party foundation wall could not take the lateral pressure force
which was being exerted from the water in the Nazzaro basement and a large section of
the wall failed due to the differential water pressure forces exerted upon the party
foundation wall.
9. As a result of the events listed in paragraphs 7. and 8. above, a large
portion of the basement party foundation wall collapsed into the basement space of the
Hawk property.
10. Significant pressure differential caused by the extreme depth of water in
the Nazzaro basement and lack of significant water in the Hawk basement caused the
failure of the basement party foundation wall.
11. As a result of the collapse of the basement party foundation wall, neither
the Hawk residence nor the Nazzaro residence are safe for occupancy and the Borough
of New Cumberland condemned both properties.
12. The Hawks were forced to find alternate housing on April 28, 2011.
13. The basement party foundation wall requires rebuilding and major
renovations are necessary to the Hawk residence in order to make it habitable.
14. The damages to the Hawk property as set forth herein were caused by the
negligence of Nazzaro in failing to keep his property in good repair, renovating his
property in a manner which allowed large holes to exist adjacent to his foundation and
the removal of exterior basement stairwell doors, all of which allowed substantial
amounts of surface water to enter the only the basement of his property, and not the
basement of the Hawks, so rapidly that it collapsed the basement party foundation wall.
15. The damages to the Hawk property as set forth herein were caused by
Nazzaro's negligence in allowing water to accumulate into his basement and collapse
the basement party foundation wall constituting a trespass upon the Hawk property.
16. In addition to the structural damages to the Hawk property, Plaintiffs have
suffered damages to the heating and ventilation, mechanical and electrical systems in
the home and have suffered other water related damage to their home.
17. Plaintiffs will incur expenses in cleaning up the damage to their home and
remediating water damage to their home.
WHEREFORE, Hawks respectfully request that the Court enter judgment in their
favor and award them damages for the repair of their property, the lack of use of their
property, and such other damages as the Court deems just, in an amount exceeding the
amount requiring compulsory arbitration.
Respectfully submitted,
BARIC SCHERER LLC
ich el A. Scherer, Esquire
I. D. # 61974
19 West South Street
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
(717) 249-6873
VERIFICATION
The statements in the foregoing Complaint are based upon information which
has been assembled by our attorney in this litigation. The language of the statements is
not our own. We have read the statements; and to the extent that they are based upon
information which we have given to our counsel, they are true and correct to the best of
our knowledge, information and belief. We understand that false statements herein are
made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. § 4904 relating to unsworn falsifications to
authorities.
DATE: i o• i 3 l
alph Hawk
Barbara Hawk
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr., Esquire
PA Attorney ID #76652
PO Box 999
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999
for Defendant, Harrv Nazzaro
RALPH HAWK and IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
BARBARA HAWK, CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLUANIA--
Plaintiffs
NO. 11-8180 V.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
HARRY NAZZARO,
Defendant o `V'
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Please enter the appearance of Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr., Esquire of Thomas,
Thomas & Hafer, LLP, on behalf of the Defendant in the above-captioned matter.
Respectfully submitted,
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
By:
Th s L. Isen Jr., quire
Attorneys for Defen
Date: November 21, 2011
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Angela A. Kelly, an employee of the law firm of Thomas, Thomas & Hafer,
LLP, hereby certify that I have served a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document on the following persons by placing same in the United States mail,
postage prepaid, and addressed as follows:
Michael A. Scherer, Esquire
Baric & Scherer, LLC
19 West South Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
Aiigela)A. Kelly
Date: November 21, 2011
1016547.1
RALPH HAWK and IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
BARBARA HAWK, OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
V. NO. 2011-8180 CIVIL TERM
HARRY NAZZARO, CIVIL ACTION-LAW ''? -ri
Defendant
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PLAINTIFFS REPLY TO NEW MATTER y
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19.-26. Paragraphs 19-26 state legal conclusions to which no resp? ns'g is
required. To the extent, however, that a response is deemed necessary, said
averments are denied generally pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1029 (d) and (e). Strict proof
thereof is demanded at time of trial.
Respectfully submitted,
BARIC SCHERER LLC
4&_,0i)
Mi hael A. Sc rer, Esquire
19 West South Street
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
(717) 249-6873
Attorney for Plaintiffs
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that on December aI , 2011, I, Jennifer S. Lindsay, secretary at
Baric Scherer LLC, did serve a copy of Plaintiffs Reply To New Matter, by first class U.S.
mail, postage prepaid, to the party listed below, as follows:
Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr., Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer LLP
305 North Front Street
P.O. Box 999
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17108
J n' e i say
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THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr., Esquire
PA Attorney ID #76652
PO Box 999
Harrisburg. PA 17108-0999
RALPH HAWK and
BARBARA. HAWK,
V.
HARRY NAZZARO,
V.
for Defendant, Harrv Nazzaro
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
Defendant
NO. 11-8180
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
BOROUGH OF NEW CUMBERLAND,
Additional Defendant
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NOTICE TO DEFEND
YOU HAVE BEEN SUED IN COURT. IF YOU WISH TO DEFEND
AGAINST THE CLAIMS SET FORTH IN THE FOLLOWING PAGES, YOU MUST
TAKE ACTION WITHIN TWENTY (20) DAYS AFTER THIS PLEADING AND
NOTICE ARE SERVED BY ENTERING A WRITTEN APPEARANCE
PERSONALLY OR BY ATTORNEY AND FILING IN WRITING WITH THE
COURT YOUR DEFENSES OR OBJECTIONS TO THE CLAIMS SET FORTH
AGAINST YOU. YOU ARE WARNED THAT IF YOU FAIL TO DO SO THE CASE
MAY PROCEED WITHOUT YOU AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED
AGAINST YOU BY THE COURT WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE FOR ANY
MONEY CLAIMED IN THE COMPLAINT OR FOR ANY OTHER CLAIM OR
RELIEF REQUESTED BY THE PLAINTIFF. YOU MAY LOSE MONEY OR
PROPERTY OR OTHER RIGHTS IMPORTANT TO YOU.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF
YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR
TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND OUT WHERE YOU
CAN GET LEGAL HELP.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr., Esquire
PA Attorney ID #76652
PO Box 999
Harrisburg. PA 17108-0999
RALPH HAWK and
BARBARA HAWK,
V.
HARRY NAZZARO,
V.
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
NO. 11-8180
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
Defendant
BOROUGH OF NEW CUMBERLAND,
Additional Defendant
DEFENDANT HARRY NAZZARO'S COMPLAINT TO JOIN
THE BOROUGH OF NEW CUMBERLAND, PENNSYLVANIA AS AN
ADDITIONAL DEFENDANT PURSUANT TO PA.R.C.P. 2252
AND NOW, comes Defendant, Harry Nazzaro, by and through his counsel,
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, and files the following Additional Defendant
Complaint to join the Borough of New Cumberland as an Additional Defendant and
in support thereof, respectfully states the following:
1. On or about October 27, 2011, Plaintiffs, Ralph and Barbara Hawk
("Plaintiffs") instituted this action in the Court of Common Pleas of Cumberland
County, Pennsylvania, by the filing of a Complaint against Defendant, Harry
Nazzaro ("Defendant"). A true and correct copy of the Plaintiffs' Complaint is
attached hereto and marked as Exhibit "A".
2. Additional Defendant is the Borough of New Cumberland, a
Pennsylvania municipality operating under the Pennsylvania Borough Code with a
principal place of business and governance located at 1120 Market Street, New
Cumberland, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
3. Plaintiffs' Complaint asserts a claim of negligence against Defendant
and further seeks the recovery of monetary damages for injuries caused to their
home and property, which allegedly occurred on or about April 28, 2011.
4. Plaintiffs' Complaint asserts that Plaintiffs and Defendant owned
property situated within the Borough of New Cumberland, Pennsylvania which,
together, formed a residential duplex with a common center wall located at 407/409
Third Street, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania.
5. Plaintiffs' Complaint further asserts that on April 28, 2011, heavy
rains resulted in large amounts of surface water which entered the basement of the
Nazzaro property through open holes in the foundation and through an exterior
basement stairwell.
6. Plaintiffs allege that the water level in the Nazzaro basement rose to
such a level that it caused the basement party foundation wall to fail and flood
Plaintiffs' basement.
7. Plaintiffs further assert that the flooding and failure of the basement
party foundation wall resulted in property damage and the need to find alternative
housing.
8. Plaintiffs contend that the damage to their property was caused by
Defendant's failure to keep his property in good repair in that Defendant allowed
large holes to exist adjacent to the property's foundation and that Defendant
removed the exterior basement stairwell doors, all of which permitted excessive
amounts of water to enter and flood the Defendant's basement.
9. Defendant filed an Answer with New Matter to Plaintiffs' Complaint
denying all allegations of negligence. A true and correct copy of Defendant's
Answer with New Matter is attached hereto and marked as Exhibit "B".
10. This Joinder Complaint is timely filed pursuant to the Pennsylvania
Rules of Civil Procedure.
11. Defendant hereby incorporates by reference, without admission, the
allegations and averments contained in Plaintiffs' Complaint.
Count I -Negligence
Harry Nazzaro v. The Borough of New Cumberland
12. :Paragraphs 1 through 11 above are incorporated herein by reference as if
set forth in full.
13. Defendant asserts that the property damage as alleged in Plaintiffs'
Complaint was caused by the Borough of New Cumberland's negligence in that the
Borough's storm water drainage system caused a dangerous condition when it failed
to accommodate the rainfall of April 28, 2011, diverted the natural flow of surface
water and caused large amounts of surface water to accumulate on and ultimately
flood the Nazzaro property.
14. Prior to and including the incident identified in Plaintiffs' Complaint,
Defendant experienced several flooding events upon his property within the
previous twelve (12) months of April 28, 2011.
15. The prior flooding events noted above were caused by the failure of the
Borough's storm water drainage system, which railed to accommodate the rainfall,
diverted the natural flow of surface water and resulted in large amounts of surface
water to run onto and accumulate on the Nazzaro property which ultimately caused
such surface water to enter the Nazzaro basement.
16. Prior to and including the incident identified in Plaintiffs' Complaint,
Defendant provided notice of the flooding events to the Borough of New
Cumberland.
17. Defendant provided notice to the Borough of New Cumberland that the
storm water drainage system located behind his residence failed to accommodate
the rainfall, diverted the natural flow of surface water, caused large amounts of
surface water to run onto his property and further caused said surface water to
enter his basement.
18. Plaintiffs also contacted and provided notice to the Borough of New
Cumberland that the storm water drainage system located behind their property
failed to accommodate the rainfall, directed surface water upon the property and
caused the accumulation of large amounts of surface water to enter their property.
19. The Borough of New Cumberland knew or should have known that the
storm water drainage system located behind the Nazzaro property failed to
accommodate the rainfall, diverted the natural flow of water and caused large
amounts of surface water to run onto the Nazzaro property flooding the Nazzaro
basement.
20. At all times material hereto, the Borough of New Cumberland failed to
take any action to remedy the known failures of its storm water drainage system
located behind the Nazzaro property.
21. The negligence and carelessness of the Borough of New Cumberland
consisted of the following;
a. failing to construct the storm water drainage system in a
manner so that the system was able to accommodate the
rainfall;
b. failing to construct the storm water drainage system so as to
prevent the run-off and accumulation of surface water on the
Nazzaro property;
C. failing to repair and maintain the storm water drainage system
in a manner so as to permit the same to accommodate the
rainfall;
d. failing to repair and maintain the storm water drainage system
so as to prevent the run-off and accumulation of surface water
on the Nazzaro property;
e. improperly directing and diverting the natural flow of surface
water on to Defendant's property; and
f. failing to take steps necessary to remedy known problems and
the dangerous condition of the storm water drainage system as
aforesaid.
22. Defendant avers that the Borough of New Cumberland is solely liable
for the underlying cause of action, is liable to or with Defendant as the joining party
on the cause of action arising out of the incident averred by Plaintiffs in Plaintiffs'
Complaint, and for any and all damages claimed by Plaintiffs for which the
underlying cause of action against Defendant as the joining party is based.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Harry Nazzaro, demands judgment to be entered
in his favor and against that of the Additional Defendant, the Borough of New
Cumberland, Pennsylvania, as sole liability or liability with Defendant on the cause
of action arising out of the incident averred to in Plaintiffs' Complaint.
Respectfully submitted,
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
By:
Tho as L. Isen squire
Attorneys for Defendant
Date: December 22, 2011
VERIFICATION
I, Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr., Esquire, counsel for Defendant, Harry Nazzaro,
verify that the statements and averments made in the Joinder Complaint are true
and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. I understand that
false statements herein are made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. §4904 relating
to unsworn falsification to authorities.
7omas L. Is uire
Date: December 22, 2011
EXHIBIT "A
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RALPH HAWK and IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
BARBARA HAWK, OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs .?
V. NO. It ?- $I 80 CIVIL TERM .-"-:-
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HARRY NAZZARO, : CIVIL ACTION-LAW x;; ,; ?4
Defendant .
NQTICE
You have been sued in court. If you wish to defend against the claims set forth in
the following pages, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this complaint
and notice are served, by entering a written appearance personally or by an attorney
and filing in writing with the court, your defenses or objections to the claims set forth
against you. You are warned that if you fall to do so, the case may proceed without you
and a judgment may be entered against you by the court without further notice for any
money claimed in -the complaint or for any other claim or relief requested by the plaintiff.
You may lose money or property or other rights Important to you.
YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE, IF YOU DO
NOT HAVE A LAWYER OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE
OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW, THIS OFFICE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH
INFORMATION ABOUT WIRING A LAWYER.
IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE,
TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER
LEGAL SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE.
Cumberland County Bar Association
32 South Bedford Street
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
(717) 2493166
IN0V. 1, LUI I L.1turivl UIU)1137LU
RALPH HAWK and
BARBARA HAWK,
Plaintiffs
V.
HARRY NAZZARO,
Defendant
IVU? I LUU ? J
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
NO. CIVIL TERM
CIVIL ACTION-LAW
COMPLAINT
AND NOW, come Ralph Hawk and Barbara Hawk, by and through their attorney,
Michael A. Scherer, Esquire, and respectfully represents as follows:
1. The plaintiffs are Ralph Hawk and Barbara Hawk (hereinafter "Hawks"),
husband and wife, who are residents of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and own
real estate located at 447 Third Street, New Cumberland, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania (hereinafter "Hawk property").
2, The defendant Is Harry Nazzaro (hereinafter "Nazzaro"), a resident of
Cumberland County, who owns real estate located at 449 Third Street, New
Cumberland, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania (hereinafter "Nazzaro property°).
3. The Hawk property and Nazzaro property together form a duplex with a
common canter wall, Including an Interior brick masonry party foundation wall in the
basement (hereinafter "basement party foundation wall'), which wall serves to separate
the Hawk and Nazzaro basements,
4. The basement party foundation wall served as an Interior bearing wall
which supported the tributary areas of the firs( and second floor structures of both
residences.
IV UV, II LVi I .. TlIIYI VIVJ7 IJJLV
5, Over the last several years Nazzaro had made certain modifioations to his
property, Including the removal of a side poroh, which left several open holes in the
exposed portions of the exterior stone masonry foundation walls at the level of the
finished exterior grade.
6 In addition, an exterior basement stairway to the Nazzaro property was
covered only by OSB board, leaving an opening for water to flow from grade Into the
Nazzaro basement,
7. On April 28, 2011, heavy rains In the New Cumberland, Pennsylvania area
resulted in large arrfounts of surfaoe water rapidly entering the basement of the Nazzaro
property through the open holes and exterior basement stalrvrell mentioned in
paragraphs five and six above.
8. Eventually the water entering the Nazzaro basement filled to the level
where the basement party foundation wall could not take the lateral pressure force
which was being exerted from the water In the Nazzaro basement and a large section of
the wail failed due to the differential water pressure forces exerted upon the party
foundation wall.
9. As a result of the events listed In paragraphs 7, and 8, above, a large
portion of the basement party foundation wall collapsed into the basement space of the
Hawk property.
10. Significant pressure differential caused by the extreme depth of water In
the Nazzaro basement and lack of significant water in the Hawk basement caused the
failure of the basement party foundation wall.
INV V, I. L V 1 1 .'?I1m V I V J I IJ/LV
11. As a result of the collapse of the basement party foundation wall, neither
the Hawk residence nor the Nazzaro residence are safe for occupancy and the Borough
of New Cumberland condemned both properties,
12. The Hawks were forced to find alternate housing on April 28, 2011.
13. The basement party foundation wall requires rebuilding and major
renovations are necessary to the Hawk residence in order to make It habitable.
14, The damages to the Hawk property as set forth herein were caused by the
negligence of Nazzaro in failing to keep his property in good repair, renovating his
property In a manner which allowed large holes to exist adjacent to his foundation and
the removal of exterior basement stairwell doors, all of which allowed substantial
amounts of surface water to enter the only the basement of his property, and not the
basement of the Hawks, so rapidly that it collapsed the basement party foundation wall.
15. The damages to the Hawk property as set forth herein were caused by
Nazzaro's negligence in allowing water to accumulate into his basement and collapse
the basement party foundation wall constituting a trespass upon the Hawk property.
16. In addition to the structural damages to the Hawk property, Plaintiffs have
suffered damages to the heating and ventilation, mechanical and electrical systems in
the home and have suffered other water related damage to their home.
17. Plaintiffs will Incur expenses in cleaning up the damage to their home and
remediating water damage to their home,
IV V V I. L i l ! ?. Y l l i9i V I V I I J% I V ? c. v v
WHEREFORE, Hawks respectfully request that the Court enter Judgment In their
favor and award them damages for. the repair of their property, the lack of use of their
property, and such other damages as the Court deems just, in an amount exceeding the
amount requiring compulsory arbitration.
Respectfully submitted,
BARIC SCHERER LLC
444 1 A/) / /tj
MlchAtel A. Scherer, Esquire
IrD. # 61974
19 West South Street
Carlisle, Pennsylvania 17013
(717) 249-0873
lVU1', !, LU' I ? "Illvi LJ;?1J! 1?7LV „?, ic.vv
VERIF=ICATION
The statements in the foregoing Complaint are based upon information which
has been assembled by our aftorney In this litigation. The language of the statements is
not our own. We have read the statements,, and to the extent that they are based upon
information which we have given to our counsel, they are true and correct to the best of
our knowledge, information and belief, We understand that false statements herein are
made subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. § 4904 relating to unsworn falsifications to
authorlties.
DATE: ! (? " I• l t ra C c
alph Hawk
Barbara Hawk
EXHIBIT "B"
-„r
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr., Esquire
PA Attorney ID #76652
PO Boa 999
Harrisbum. PA 17108-0999
RALPH HAlA7K and
BARBARA HAWK,
Attorney for Defendant, Harry Nazzaro
IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
V.
NO. 11-81.80
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
HARRY NAZZARO,
Defendant
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO: Ralph Hawk and Barbara Hawk
c/o Michael A. Scherer, Esquire
Baric & Scherer, LLC
19 West South Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
YOU .ARE HEREBY REQUIRED to respond to the within New Matter within
twenty (20) days of the date of service hereof or a default judgment may be entered
against you.
Respectfully submitted,
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
By
T mas L. enber , J , Esquire
TR
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr., Esquire
PA Attorney ID #76652
PO Box 999
Harrisburg. PA 17108-0999
Nazzaro
RALPH HAWK and IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
BARBARA HAWK, CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLVANIA
Plaintiffs
NO. 11-8180
V.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
HARRY NAZZARO,
Defendant
ANSWER WITH NEW MATTER OFDEFENDANT TO PLAINTIFFS'
COMPLAINT
AND NOW, comes Defendant, Harry Nazzaro, by and through his counsel,
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, and respectfully files this Answer with New Matter
to Plaintiffs' Complaint and in support thereof, states the following:
1. Admitted upon information and belief.
2. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted only that Defendant
Harry Nazzaro ("Nazzaro") currently owns real estate located at 409 Third Street,
New Cumberland, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. It is denied that Defendant
Nazzaro is a resident of Cumberland County. By way of further answer, Defendant
currently resides at 197 Reward Road, Millerstown, Perry County, Pennsylvania.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted only that, at the time of
the incident, complained of within Plaintiffs' Complaint, Defendant Nazzaro was in
the process of constructing a new side porch. It is denied that the demolition and/or
construction of the side porch resulted in any open holes in the exposed portion of
IN
the exterior stone masonry foundation. By way of further answer, there were no
open holes in the exposed portion of the exterior stone masonry foundation at the
time of the incident complained of in Plaintiffs' Complaint.
6. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted only that the exterior
basement stairway was covered by OSB board. It is denied that the presence of the
OSB board provided any direct opening for water to flow from grade into the
Nazzaro basement. By way of further answer, the OSB board covering the stairwell
was sealed and caulked and the stairwell was closed with a sealed and insulated
double wall. By way of further answer, water entered the basement through non-
water tight points of the floor, walls and foundation as well as through other surface
cavities in and around the property.
7. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted only that on April 28,
2011 there were heavy rains in the New Cumberland, Pennsylvania area and that
water entered Defendant's basement. It is denied that the heavy rains were the sole
causation for large amounts of surface water to enter Defendant Nazzaro's
basement and that such water entered the basement only through open holes in the
foundation and exterior basement stairwell as alleged. By way of further answer,
the Borough of New Cumberland's storm water drainage system failed to
accommodate the heavy rainfall and as a result of such failure, large amounts of
surface water accumulated, crossed several adjacent properties, entered Defendant
Nazzaro's basement, among others, and flooded Defendant's basement. The
remaining allegations contained in paragraph 7 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied
inasmuch as after reasonable investigation, Defendant Nazzaro is without
2
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knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of same. Strict
proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
8. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted that a large section of
the wall failed. It is denied that the wall failed solely due to the lateral pressure
force being exerted thereon. The remaining allegations contained in paragraph 8 of
Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied inasmuch as after reasonable investigation,
Defendant Nazzaro is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief
as to the truth of same. Strict proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
9. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted only that a large
portion of the basement party foundation wall collapsed into the basement space of
Plaintiffs' property. For the reason set forth in paragraph 7 above, the same of
which is incorporated hereby by reference, the remaining allegations are denied.
10. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted only that significant
pressure differential caused by the depth of water in the Nazzaro basement was a
cause of the basement party foundation wall failure. The remaining allegations
contained within paragraph 10 of Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied inasmuch as
after reasonable investigation, Defendant Nazzaro is without knowledge or
information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of same. Strict proof thereof is
demanded at the time of trial.
11. Admitted.
12. Admitted upon information and belief.
13. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted only that the basement
party foundation wall requires rebuilding and/or repair so as to make the Hawk
3
m
residence habitable. The remaining allegations contained within paragraph 13 of
Plaintiffs' Complaint are denied inasmuch as after reasonable investigation,
Defendant Nazzaro is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief
as to the truth of same. Strict proof thereof is demanded at the time of trial.
14. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 14 of Plaintiffs'
Complaint are legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is required. To the
extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically denies the
same.
15. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 15 of Plaintiffs'
Complaint are legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is required. To the
extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically denies the
same.
16. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendant Nazzaro is without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the allegations
contained within paragraph 16 of Plaintiffs' Complaint. Strict proof thereof is
demanded at the time of trial.
17. Denied. After reasonable investigation, Defendant Nazzaro is without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the allegations
contained within paragraph 17 of Plaintiffs' Complaint. Strict proof thereof is
demanded at the time of trial.
WHEREFORE, Defendant Harry Nazzaro respectfully requests this
Honorable Court to enter judgment in his favor and against that of the Plaintiffs.
4
TV
NEW MATTER
18. Paragraphs 1 through 17 are incorporated herein by reference as if set
forth in full.
19. Plaintiffs have failed to state a claim upon which relief can be granted.
20. Defendant was not negligent and at all times material hereto,
performed each and every duty owed to Plaintiffs, if any, in a reasonable and
prudent manner.
21. Defendant owes no duty to Plaintiffs.
22. The value of Plaintiffs' claims are diminished due to their failure to
mitigate their damages.
23. Plaintiffs' alleged damages were caused, in whole or in part, by third
parties over whom Defendant had no control.
24. The occurrence complained of was neither intended, foreseeable, nor
preventable by the exercise of reasonable care.
25. The flooding of Defendant's basement and any resulting damage to the
Plaintiffs' property was not caused by Defendant's intentional or negligent acts.
26. The large amount of water that flooded Defendant Nazzaro's basement
was caused by the Borough of New Cumberland's storm water drainage system,
which failed to accommodate the rainfall, caused large amounts of water to back up,
cross several adjacent properties, and enter Defendant Nazzaro's basement.
5
Tw
WHEREFORE, Defendant Harry Nazzaro respectfully requests this
Honorable Court to enter judgment in his favor and against that of the Plaintiffs.
Respectfully submitted,
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
gy:
Th mas L. Isen r., Esq 're
Attorneys for Defen
Date/J/07/ v/j
6
TI
VERIFICATION
I, Harry Nazarro, verify that the statements made in the foregoing Answer
with New Matter are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information and
belief. I understand that false statements herein are made subject to the penalties of
18 Pa. C.S. §4904 relating to unsworn falsification to authorities.
By:%," )
-
Harry N aro
Date :
???
Tw
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Angela A. Kelly, an employee of the law firm of Thomas, Thomas & Hafer,
LLP, hereby certify that I have served a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document on the following persons by placing same in the United States mail,
postage prepaid, and addressed as follows:
Michael A. Scherer, Esquire
Baric & Scherer, LLC
19 West South Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Date: 12,'-T ? l
1016585.1
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
I
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Angela A. Kelly, an employee of the law firm of Thomas, Thomas & Hafer,
LLP, hereby certify that I have served a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document on the following persons, and addressed as follows:
Via first class mail
Michael A. Scherer, Esquire
Baric & Scherer, LLC
19 West South Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Date: December 22, 2011
Via personal service
Borough of New Cumberland
1120 Market Street
New Cumberland, PA 17070
1027565.1
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
SHERIFF'S OFFICE OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Ronny R Anderson
Sheriff
Jody S Smith
Chief Deputy
Richard W Stewart
Solicitor
Ralph Hawk (et al.)
vs.
Borough of New Cumberland
w' 1 i1
n E'? !!I?"1 PM
t: ?.`?tL..•: so
CUMBERLAND
YES pEtd Mtj'px t?
Case Number
2011-8180
SHERIFF'S RETURN OF SERVICE
01/04/2012 12:25 PM - Timothy Black, Deputy Sheriff, who being duly sworn according to law, states that on January
4, 2012 at 1225 hours, he served a true copy of the within Complaint and Notice, upon the within named
defendant, to wit: Borough of New Cumberland, by making known unto Fran Lengenman, Office Manager
for The Borough of New Cumberland at 1120 Market Street, New Cumberland, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania 17070 its contents and at the same time handing to her personally the said true and correct
copy of the same.
SHERIFF COST: $45.00
January 05, 2012
TIM BLA K, DEPUTY
SO ANSWERS,
RON R ANDERSON, SHERIFF
I 1: A ((t°?} ?1?f t((
WILLIAM J. FERREN & ASSOCIATES
BY: Christine E. Munion, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 72724
10 Sentry Parkway, Suite 301
Blue Bell, PA 19422
(215) 274-1731
1012 FEB 24 P l: 22
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
PENNSYLVANIA
Attorney for Defendant, Borough of
New Cumberland
Ralph Hawk and Barbara Hawk
V. ;
Harry Nazzaro
Defendant
Borough of New Cumberland
Additional Defendant :
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
NO. 11-8180
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Defendant, Borough of New Cumberland, by and through their undersigned counsel, ?xrebv
demand a trial by a jury of twelve.
WILLIAK4 J. F SSO(1: TES
By:
rtstine E. n, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Borough of
New Cumberland
Not a Partnership or Professional Corporation
All Attorneys are Employees of The Travelers Indemnity Company
and its Property Casualty Affiliates and Subsidiaries
WILLIAM J. FERREN & ASSOCIATES
BY: Christine E. Munion, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 72724
10 Sentry Parkway, Suite 301
Blue Bell, PA 19422
(215) 274-1731
2,212 FEB 24 Ph 1: 22
??U?iEIERLAND A??'ouY
Attorney foMNA Y gh of
New Cumberland
Ralph Hawk and Barbara Hawk COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
V.
Harry Nazzaro
NO. 11-8180
Defendant JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
Borough of New Cumberland
Additional Defendant
ENTRY OF APPEARANCE
TO THE PROTHONOTARY:
Kindly enter my appearance as attorney for Defendant, Borough of New Cumberland, in the
above captioned matter.
WILLIAN4- . P?'RREN & ASSOCIATES
BY: I
Not a Partnership or Professional Corporation
All Attorneys are Employees of The Travelers Indemnity Company
and its Property Casualty Affiliates and Subsidiaries
?,, risti e ? nion, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Borough of
New Cumberland
mt` JI:ui tU
23 kit i a?
Defendant
Christine E. Munion, Esquire
WILLIAM J. FERREN & ASSOCIATES
BY: Christine E. Munion, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 72724
10 Sentry Parkway, Suite 301
Blue Bell, PA 19422
(215) 274-1731
NOTICE TO PLEAD
TO: PLAINTIFF/DEFENDANT
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED TO PLEAD
TO THE ENCLOSED NEW MATTER
TWENTY (20) DAYS FROM THE SERVICES
HEREOF OR A DEFAULT JUDGMEN%
MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU. / .
Attorney for Defendant, Borough of
New Cumberland
Ralph Hawk and Barbara Hawk
V.
Harry Nazzaro
Borough of New Cumberland
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
NO. 11-8180
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
Additional Defendant
DEFENDANT BOROUGH OF NEW CUMBERLAND'S ANSWER TO DEFENDANT,
HARRY NAZZARO'S JOINDER COMPLAINT
WITH NEW MATTER
NOW COMES Additional Defendant Borough of New Cumberland by and through their
attorneys Law Offices of William J. Ferren and Associates, by Christine E. Munion, Esquire and
in support of its answer and new matter to defendant, Harry Nazzaro's Joinder Complaint states
as follows:
1. Denied. After reasonable investigation, answering additional defendant is without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments contained in
said paragraph, and they are therefore deemed denied.
2. Admitted in part; denied in part. It is admitted only that the Borough of New
Cumberland's address is 1120 Market Street, New Cumberland, Cumberland County,
Pennsylvania. The remaining averments are denied as they constitute conclusions of law to
which no response is necessary and they are therefore denied.
3. Admitted.
4. Admitted.
5. Admitted.
6. Admitted.
7. Admitted.
8. Admitted.
9. Admitted.
10. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
11. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
Count I - Nee leence
Harry Nazzaro v. The BorouO of New Cumberland
12. Paragraph 1 through 11 of defendant's Joinder Complaint are incorporated herein
by reference as if set forth in full.
13. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
14. Denied. After reasonable investigation, answering additional defendant is without
knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of the averments contained in
said paragraph, and they are therefore deemed denied.
15. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
16. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
17. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
18. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
19. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
20. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
21. (a)-(f) Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied. By way of further reply, answering defendant denies that it was
negligent. To the contrary, at all times relevant herein, answering defendant acted reasonably
and without negligence.
22. Denied. Answering additional defendant is advised by counsel that the
corresponding averments constitute conclusions of law to which no response is necessary and
therefore the same are denied.
WHEREFORE, answering additional defendant demands judgment in its favor and
against all other parties together with interests and costs.
NEW MATTER ADDRESSED TO PLAINTIFFS RALPH AND BARBARA HAWK AND
DEFENDANT HARRY NAZZARO
23. Answering additional defendant is considered a political subdivision or an agent
of a political subdivision whose liability for claims in tort is statutorily prescribed by the
Pennsylvania Political Subdivisions Tort Claim Act, 42 Pa. C.S.A. §8542 (hereinafter referred to
as "The Act")
24. The Act provides a general grant of immunity to political subdivisions, their
departments and employees, when acting within the scope of their office or duties.
25. The Act further provides limited exceptions under which recovery for tort claims
may be made against political subdivisions such as defendants.
26. All causes of action are or may be barred or otherwise limited by the
Pennsylvania Political Subdivisions Tort Claims Act, 42 Pa. C.S.A. §8241 et seq.
27. All causes of action are barred because the parties have failed to give notice to
the additional defendant within the six (6) month statute of limitations as set forth in 42 Pa.
C.S.A.§8522.
28. Some if not all of the allegations of negligence are not causes of action that fall
within any of the exceptions to the Pennsylvania Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act, 42
Pa.C.S.A. §8541 et. seq.
29. Additional defendant had no notice, nor can it be reasonably charged with notice
under the circumstances, that a dangerous condition existed at a sufficient time prior to the
incident to have taken protective measures.
30. Any benefits received by plaintiff or to which plaintiff may be entitled other than
the proceeds from a life insurance policy are deductible from any damages which may be
assessed against the defendants. Act of October 5, 1980, P.L. 693, No. 142 §221(e) 42 Pa. 8553
et sm.
31. Any claim against the additional defendant is barred or limited by the Act of
October 5, 1980, P.L. 693, No. 142 Pa. C.S.A. §8541 et SeMc . providing governmental immunity.
32. If any injuries and/or damages were sustained by the plaintiff as averred in their
Complaint, they were caused in whole or in part by persons other than the additional defendant
and over whom the answering defendant had no control and for whose actions answering
defendant is not liable.
33. Whatever injuries and damages, if any, were sustained by plaintiff as averred in
her Complaint were caused in whole or in part by conditions and circumstances beyond the
control of the answering defendant.
34. Plaintiffs' claims are barred or substantially reduced because of plaintiff's failure
to act reasonably or timely to mitigate damages.
35. Any negligence of the additional defendant was not a substantial factor in causing
the harm complained of by plaintiff.
36. The claims of plaintiff are barred by the appropriate statutes of limitations and
repose.
37. Answering Defendant cannot be primarily liable for the alleged injuries of the
plaintiffs.
38. Plaintiffs' Complaint and the Joinder Complaint fail to state a cause of action
upon which relief can be granted.
39. Additional Defendant was not negligent.
40. Additional Defendant did not cause any alleged, harm, injury or loss.
41. The negligent act or omissions of other individuals or entities constituted
superseding, intervening causes of the damages and/or injuries alleged to have been sustained by
Plaintiff.
42. Additional Defendant is not responsible for persons, events, circumstances or
conditions beyond answering Defendant's control.
43. Plaintiffs' claims may be barred in whole or in part by assumption of the risk.
44. Plaintiffs' claims may be barred in whole or in part, or reduced by Plaintiffs'
contributory and/or comparative negligence.
45. Plaintiffs' have not sustained any injuries cognizable under Pennsylvania law as a
consequence of answering defendant's alleged action.
46. Plaintiffs' claims are barred because Plaintiff has sustained no injury in fact.
47. Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 238, pertaining to delay damages, is
inapplicable under the facts of the present case, and is unconstitutional and in violation of the
Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
48. Without waiver of the above defense, to the extent that delay damages are alleged,
any such delay was not caused by Additional Defendant but was caused by another party or by a
circumstance not the fault of additional Defendant, and delay damages should not be assessed for
same.
49. Plaintiffs' may have entered into a release which bars and/or limited recovery in
this action.
50. Plaintiffs' claims may be barred in whole or in part by the doctrine of res judicata
and/or collateral estoppel.
51. Plaintiffs' claims, if any, may be reduced and/or limited by any collateral source
of compensation and/or benefit.
52. Plaintiffs' have failed to mitigate damages.
WHEREFORE, answering Defendant demands judgment in its favor and against all
other parties together with interests and costs.
NEW MATTER IN THE NATURE OF A CROSS-CLAIM AGAINST DEFENDANT
NAZZARO
By way of further answer, answering defendants assert the following New Matter in the
Nature of a Cross-Claim:
44. The averments in Plaintiffs' Complaint are incorporated by reference herein as if
fully set forth at length.
45. If it is determined that Answering Defendant Borough of New Cumberland, is
liable to the Plaintiff on any count in Plaintiffs' Complaint, this being strictly denied, then
Defendant Harry Nazzaro is solely liable to the Plaintiffs, jointly and severally liable to the
Plaintiffs, or liable over to Defendant Borough of New Cumberland, by way of contribution
and/or indemnification on plaintiffs' cause of action.
WHEREFORE, Answering Defendant, Borough of New Cumberland denies liability and
avers that Defendant Harry Nazzaro.is solely liable, and/or jointly and severally liable and/or
liable over to it on the cause of action declared upon and demand judgment in its favor.
ATES
WILLIAM J. FE77
By:
Christine . Munion, Esquire
Attorney for Defendant, Borough of
New Cumberland
VERIFICATION
I, Stephen C. Sultzaberger, am the Borough Manager for the Borough of New
Cumberland, Pennsylvania and state that the facts in Additional Defendant, Borough of New
Cumberland's Answer to the Joinder Complaint with New Matter are true and correct to the best
of my knowledge, information and belief. This Verification is made with knowledge of the
penalties contained in 18 Pa. C.S.A. §4904, relating to unsworn verification to authorities.
By: OeAor -
SStephefi C. Sultza erger
Manager, Borough of New Cumberland
Dated:
Not a Partnership or Professional Corporation
All Attorneys are Employees of The Travelers Indemnity Company
and its Property Casualty Affiliates and Subsidiaries
WILLIAM J. FERREN & ASSOCIATES
BY: Christine E. Munion, Esquire
Attorney I.D. No. 72724
10 Sentry Parkway, Suite 301
Blue Bell, PA 19422
(215) 274-1731
Ralph Hawk and Barbara Hawk
V.
Attorney for Defendant, Borough of
New Cumberland
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, PA
Harry Nazzaro
Defendant
NO. 11-8180
JURY TRIAL DEMANDED
Borough of New Cumberland
Additional Defendant
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Christine E. Munion, Esquire, hereby certify that I have served upon all persons listed
below a true and correct copy of Defendant Borough of New Cumberland's Answer to
Defendant Harry Nazzaro's Joinder Complaint with New Matter in the above-captioned matter
this date by First-Class Mail, postage prepaid to all parties listed below:
Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr, Esquire
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP
P. O. Box 999
305 North Front Street, Sixth Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999
Michael A. Scherer, Esquire
Baric Scherer LLC
19 West South Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
WILLIAM J. FERREN & ASSOCIATES
By:
Christine E. Munion, Esquire
Attorney for Additional Defendant
Dated: March 20, 2012
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP - ?, ` E' i { U ;°'.)
Thomas L. Isenberg, Jr., Esquire
PA Attorney ID #76652
PO Box 999 t-
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0999 Attornev for Defendant, Harrv Nazzaro
RALPH HAWK and 'j 13 E t-\L A `0 C THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS
?E?_?aN!
BARBARA HAWK, Plaintiffs ''PiS Y CUMBERLAND CO., PENNSYLVANIA
NO. 11-818o
V.
CIVIL ACTION - LAW
HARRY NAZZARO,
Defendant
V.
BOROUGH OF NEW CUMBERLAND,
Additional Defendant
DEFENDANT HARRY NAZZARO'S REPLY TO NEW MATTER AND
ANSWER TO CROSS-CLAIM OF ADDITIONAL DEFENDANT
AND NOW, comes Defendant, Harry Nazzaro, by and through his counsel,
Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP, and files the within Reply to New Matter and Answer to
Cross-Claim of Additional Defendant, Borough of New Cumberland as follows:
23. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 23 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
24. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 24 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies same. By way of further answer, the remaining allegations contained within
paragraph 24 further relate to or reference a document, the terms, conditions and
contents of which speak for itself.
25. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 25 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies same. By way of further answer, the remaining allegations contained within
paragraph 24 relate to or reference a document, the terms, conditions and contents of
which speak for itself.
26. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 26 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
27. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 27 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
28. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 28 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
29. Denied. It is denied that Additional Defendant received no notice that a
dangerous condition existed at a sufficient time prior to the incident to have taken
protective measures. By way of further answer, Additional Defendant was provided
notice of the dangerous condition on numerous occasions prior to the incident which is
the subject matter of the within litigation.
30. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 30 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
31. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 31 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
32 Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 32 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
33• Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 33 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same. By way of further answer, after reasonable investigation, Defendant
Nazzaro is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of
the remaining allegations contained within paragraph 33 and strict proof thereof is
demanded at time of trial.
34• Denied as stated. The allegations in paragraph 34 are directed to a party
other than Defendant Nazzaro and as such, no further response is deemed necessary.
35• Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 35 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
36. Denied as stated. The allegations in paragraph 36 are directed to a party
other than Defendant Nazzaro and as such, no further response is deemed necessary.
37. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 37 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
38. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 38 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
39• Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 39 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
40. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 40 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
41. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 41 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
42. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 42 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same. By way of further answer, after reasonable investigation, Defendant
Nazzaro is without knowledge or information sufficient to form a belief as to the truth of
the remaining allegations contained within paragraph 42. Strict proof thereof is
demanded at the time of trial.
43• Denied as stated. The allegations in paragraph 43 are directed to a party
other than Defendant Nazzaro and as such, no further response is deemed necessary.
44• Denied as stated. The allegations in paragraph 44 are directed to a party
other than Defendant Nazzaro and as such, no further response is deemed necessary.
45• Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 45 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
46. Denied as stated. The allegations in paragraph 46 are directed to a party
other than Defendant Nazzaro and as such, no further response is deemed necessary.
47. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 47 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
48. Denied. The allegations contained within paragraph 48 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter contain legal conclusions to which no responsive pleading is
required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary, Defendant Nazzaro specifically
denies the same.
49• Denied as stated. The allegations in paragraph 49 are directed to a party
other than Defendant Nazzaro and as such, no further response is deemed necessary.
50. Denied as stated. The allegations in paragraph 5o are directed to a parry
other than Defendant Nazzaro and as such, no further response is deemed necessary.
51. Denied as stated. The allegations in paragraph 51 are directed to a parry
other than Defendant Nazzaro and as such, no further response is deemed necessary.
52. Denied as stated. The allegations in paragraph 52 are directed to a parry
other than Defendant Nazzaro and as such, no further response is deemed necessary.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Harry Nazzaro, respectfully requests judgment be
entered in his favor and against all other parties to this action.
DEFENDANT NAZZARO'S ANSWER TO ADDITIONAL DEFENDANT'S
NEW MATTER IN THE NATURE OF A CROSS-CLAIM
44• No response is deemed necessary to paragraph 44 of Additional
Defendant's New Matter in the Nature of a Cross-Claim inasmuch as the same does not
contain any factual allegations. By way of further answer, however, Defendant Nazzaro
incorporates by reference all facts and allegations contained within its Answer and New
Matter to Plaintiffs' Complaint as well as its Complaint to Join Additional Defendant by
reference as if set forth at length herein.
45• Denied. The allegations contained within 45 of Additional Defendant's
New Matter in the Nature of a Cross-Claim contain legal conclusions to which no
responsive pleading is required. To the extent a response is deemed necessary,
Defendant Nazzaro specifically denies the same.
WHEREFORE, Defendant, Harry Nazzaro respectfully requests this Honorable
Court to enter judgment in its favor and against all other parties to this action.
Respectfully submitted,
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
omas L. I nberg, Jr. Esquire
A orneys for De en ant
Date: April 12, 2012
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I, Angela A. Kelly, an employee of the law firm of Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, LLP,
hereby certify that I have served a true and correct copy of the foregoing Reply of
Defendant to New Matter of Additional Defendant on the following persons by placing
same in the United States mail, postage prepaid, and addressed as follows:
Michael A. Scherer, Esquire
Baric & Scherer, LLC
19 West South Street
Carlisle, PA 17013
Christine E. Munion, Esquire
William J. Ferren & Associates
1o Sentry Parkway, Suite 301
Blue Bell, PA 19422
THOMAS, THOMAS & HAFER, LLP
6 1 A??
Kelly
Date: April 12, 2012
1073131.1