Woman sues Disneyland after collision with 'Goofy' left her with 'permanent injuries'

The woman claims that 'Goofy' walked directly into her at Disney California causing her to topple.

In a bizarre turn of events at the Disney California Adventure Park, a visit meant for joyous memories took a distressing turn for Katrina Griffin, who alleges she suffered permanent injuries after an incident involving a beloved Disney character.

On April 3, 2022, Griffin's day at the park with her daughter took a traumatic turn when, according to a lawsuit filed with the Orange County Superior Court, an actor portraying "Goofy" purportedly collided with her, causing her to sustain severe injuries.

Griffin's ordeal unfolded as she bent down to attend to her daughter's shoelace. SFGate reported that the Goofy character allegedly approached directly, resulting in Griffin tumbling onto the hard pavement. The lawsuit, filed in late March, contends that the mascot then fell onto Griffin with full force, leading to what she described as "severe, traumatic, debilitating, and permanent injuries that necessitated significant medical care."

The legal documents, however, lack specifics on Griffin's injuries. Named as co-defendants in the lawsuit are Disneyland, the actor donning the Goofy suit, and the mascot's handler. Disney Parks employ handlers for the mascots who are tasked with ensuring safe interactions between characters and guests. However, Griffin alleges that the handler failed to avert the collision, resulting in the injuries.

The identities of the cast members involved remain undisclosed in the lawsuit, listed only as "John Doe 1" and "John Doe 2," according to KTLA. Griffin, seeking redress for her medical expenses and loss of earnings, as well as damages for negligence, anticipates a trial by jury. She fears her injuries may lead to permanent disability.

This incident isn't the first time a Disney theme park has faced legal action over personal injuries. In a separate case, Disney World in Florida is embroiled in litigation after a woman claimed to have suffered serious harm during a visit to Typhoon Lagoon. Emma McGuinness alleges she experienced a painful wedgie and water intrusion during a high-speed waterslide plunge on her 30th birthday in October 2019.