Disney Diner Death: Staff Delay Linked to Steak Choking Tragedy

A tragic incident at Walt Disney World's The Boathouse restaurant has led to a lawsuit alleging that staff negligence contributed to the death of Kevin Duncan, a 42-year-old father of three. Duncan choked on a piece of steak on the evening of June 8, 2025, while dining with companions. The lawsuit, filed in Orange County, Florida, claims that restaurant employees did not promptly call 911, opting instead to contact security, which resulted in a critical delay in summoning emergency medical services.

The delay, described as lasting more than two minutes, allegedly caused Duncan to suffer severe hypoxia and cardiopulmonary arrest. Despite efforts by his companions and eventual transport to the hospital, he passed away the next day. The lawsuit asserts that a restaurant's duty of care in Florida includes summoning emergency assistance for patrons in obvious distress. It also alleges that an employee advised against calling 911 and that management deleted surveillance footage of the incident.

Gibsons Restaurant Group, the owner of The Boathouse, acknowledged the loss and stated they are unable to comment due to the active legal proceedings. Disney was not named as a defendant. Lawyers for The Boathouse have filed a motion to dismiss, citing procedural issues with the complaint. The case is proceeding in Orlando federal court, with the plaintiff seeking damages for wrongful death and negligence.