Chicago resident Roxie Ellis Douglas filed a federal lawsuit on August 22, 2026, alleging that a meal she ordered from a Wendy’s restaurant in the city caused a severe foodborne illness. The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, says Douglas contracted a Campylobacter intestinal infection after eating a double cheeseburger and baked potato delivered by DoorDash on or around August 5, 2025.
Medical impact and costs
According to the court filing, Douglas suffered acute infectious colitis, leukocytosis, dehydration, gastroenteritis and hypokalemia secondary to diarrhea. The illness required two hospitalizations, and her medical bills totalled $93,578.
Allegations against Wendy’s
The lawsuit accuses Wendy’s of strict product liability, negligence and breach of the warranty of wholesomeness. Douglas’ attorneys argue that the food was contaminated with bacteria when it left Wendy’s control, indicating failures in safe food storage, preparation and handling practices. The complaint alleges that Wendy’s did not adequately prepare the meal for human consumption nor eliminate Campylobacter or other harmful bacteria.
Legal context
Wendy’s has moved to keep the case in federal court, citing diversity of citizenship – the plaintiff resides in Illinois while the corporation is headquartered in Ohio – and the amount in controversy exceeds the $75,000 threshold for federal jurisdiction. The fast‑food chain has not yet commented on the allegations.
Broader implications
Food safety lawsuits such as this one highlight the responsibilities of restaurant operators and third‑party delivery services to ensure that meals are safe when they leave the kitchen. While the case is pending, it underscores the potential financial burden on individuals who experience severe foodborne illness and the importance of rigorous hygiene standards in the fast‑food industry.
The complaint was originally reported by NBC Chicago and later syndicated by other news outlets.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
