Reynolds v. Patrick

A barn floor collapsed at an auction held on a farm owned by defendant Patrick in the town of Fabius, Onondaga County, February 28, 1947. Some thirty persons were carried into the basement of the barn. Plaintiff has been awarded a verdict of $1,500 for injuries received. Prior to the trial, Rowe and Gorman, auctioneers, had paid an equal amount to purchase their release, plaintiff reserving his right of action against the instant defendants.

Defendant Patrick moves for a new trial on grounds, among others, that a verdict finding the owner of the property liable and absolving the occupant,…