New York: A trip to Costco usually means good vibes—loading up on snacks, discovering oversized deals, and maybe grabbing a $1.50 hot dog on the way out. But for one Sonoma County woman, what started as a normal visit turned into a nightmare she’s still recovering from. And now, she’s taking one of America’s biggest retailers to court for $14 million.
In March 2024, Sadie Novotny says she was shopping at the Santa Rosa Costco when a towering display collapsed and pinned her underneath it. The impact? A traumatic brain injury, chronic health struggles, and emotional trauma that she claims will affect her for life. Her lawsuit isn’t just about compensation—it’s a sharp spotlight on safety practices in giant retail stores we trust daily.
For those who love Costco for its bulk buys, quirky TikTok finds, and budget-friendly hacks—this lawsuit is more than a local case. It’s a reminder that big-box shopping isn’t always as carefree as it seems. Let’s break down what happened, what’s being claimed, and what it means for shoppers everywhere.
What Happened Inside the Santa Rosa Costco?
According to the lawsuit, Sadie Novotny was walking past a furniture display inside the Santa Rosa location when a large cabinet—resting on what she describes as an old, unstable pallet—toppled onto her. The display allegedly had thin legs and wasn’t properly secured, causing it to crash down without warning.
The result? Novotny says she suffered a traumatic brain injury and multiple long-term physical problems. Her lawyers claim the display setup was negligent and unsafe, turning a routine shopping trip into a life-altering event.
Why the Lawsuit Demands $14 Million
Sadie Novotny is suing Costco for a total of $14 million in damages, breaking down into:
- $5 million for physical pain and suffering
- $5 million for emotional distress
- $100,000 for medical bills and lost income
- $4 million for anticipated future care and rehabilitation
The lawsuit also argues that Costco failed in its duty to maintain a safe shopping environment. And with over 850 locations across the globe, the case raises serious questions about how much attention is paid to customer safety on the ground.
Why the Case Moved to Federal Court
Originally filed in a California state court, the case has since been moved to the U.S. District Court in San Francisco at Costco’s request. The company, headquartered in Washington State, leveraged federal jurisdiction due to the high claim amount and cross-state nature of the lawsuit.
A case management hearing is scheduled for September, where timelines, discovery, and trial strategy will be discussed. Until then, all eyes are on whether Costco will fight the claims or attempt a settlement.
What This Means for You, the Shopper
Whether you’re a college student doing a bulk snack run or a new parent loading up on baby wipes, you expect the stores you trust to keep you safe. This lawsuit brings a few critical lessons:
Retail isn’t always risk-free: Even your favourite shopping spots can have overlooked hazards. Always stay alert around tall displays and unsecured items.
Customer rights matter: Legal action like this reminds corporations that shoppers aren’t powerless. If something feels unsafe, speak up—or report it.
Safety over aesthetics: As stores build Instagrammable product towers and influencer-friendly setups, structural safety must come first.
Why You Should Pay Attention
Costco has long been a beloved institution among younger shoppers—thanks to its low-cost food court, viral product discoveries, and “buy it in bulk, live smart” philosophy. But younger consumers also care deeply about transparency and corporate responsibility. This case could shift how big brands approach safety, store design, and customer trust.
If Novotny wins, it may pressure other retailers to reexamine how they present products—especially in high-traffic, family-oriented spaces. And that could make your next Costco run a little safer.
