Robinhood Sued Over 20-Year-Old’s Suicide
February 9, 2021 by Evann Gastaldo
(NEWSER) – The family of the 20-year-old college student who committed suicide after seeing his Robinhood account was apparently in the red to the tune of more than $700,000 is now suing the trading app. Alex Kearns committed suicide in June after seeing the alarming figure, and his family says he first tried three times to contact customer service about the issue—but was met with automated responses each time. They are now suing the company for wrongful death, negligent infliction of emotional distress, and unfair business practices. The site uses “aggressive tactics and strategy to lure inexperienced and unsophisticated investors,” the Illinois family’s lawsuit says, per CNBC. His parents tell CBS News their son was somehow allowed to trade options, which is quite risky and can lead to big losses—but he likely didn’t actually owe the money he thought he’d lost; in fact, the family lawyers believe he may have actually made a profit.
Click HERE to read the full story via Newser
Wink’s Note: At one time I had a contract to be the subject of the maiden episode of the failed “Law & Order: You the Jury.”
It was shortly after my son’s suicide (recall that he completed as a result of being bullied).
This show gave ordinary citizens the opportunity to have a “Judge Judy”- type lawsuit, but more dramatic. The plaintiff would appear in front of the defendant, accuse them face-to-face, put their trust in the anonymous NBC-appointed attorney, & put their faith in the live jury.
It sounded like a GREAT way to get back at those bullies that “killed my son.”
As I worked with the NBC attorneys, producers, and crew- I started thinking more about how these kids’ lives would be ruined by this show. I imagined THEIR parents, feeling something remotely similar to my loss. I bailed, paid NBC $3,000, and forgave the bullies. Today, I am free of this burden.
I get why Alex Kearns’ parents are suing Robinhood. I remember that feeling. If you have extra prayers available, please send them up for the Kearns. That terrible vengeful feeling is the most toxic thing I have ever known. – sjm
