Lawsuit Filed After Man Loses Arm in Accident at Niagara Pumpkin Farm

A negligence lawsuit has been filed in Niagara County following an accident at the Niagara Pumpkin Farm in Sanborn that resulted in a Lewiston man losing his right arm.

The case involves 37-year-old Eliot Shirback who was seriously injured on October 23rd, 2024, when an off-road utility vehicle rolled over while he was riding as a passenger on the farm’s property. His injuries were so severe that his arm was amputated above the elbow.

The lawsuit, filed in supreme court this week, names multiple defendants including the pumpkin farm and its owners, the driver of the vehicle, and People Inc., a nonprofit based in Amherst that provides services for individuals with developmental disabilities. A People Inc. employee who accompanied Shirback to the farm that day was also included in the complaint.

Court filings claim that Shirback, who has Williams syndrome, was brought to the farm as part of a supervised outing. While under the care of a People Inc. worker, he was allegedly left unattended for an extended period. During that time, someone associated with the farm agreed to take him on a ride in a Polaris utility task vehicle. The ride ended in a crash at an estimated 30 miles per hour, leaving Shirback with life-altering injuries.

Attorneys argue that the accident was the result of negligence by all parties named in the suit. They also contend that Shirback’s medical needs are now permanent and will require lifelong treatment, including the use of a prosthetic arm.

People Inc. responded to the lawsuit by denying wrongdoing and indicated that it would defend itself against the allegations. The organization noted that it provides a variety of services aimed at promoting independence and quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Niagara Pumpkin Farm, known for its haunted hayrides, family activities, and seasonal attractions, is a popular destination in the fall. The farm also donates a portion of its proceeds to local charities.

Lawsuit Filed After Man Loses Arm in Accident at Niagara Pumpkin Farm