Morse Law Firm Secures $75 Million Verdict in Historic Wrongful Death Case: Award is the Largest Single Death Verdict Ever in Michigan

In a groundbreaking judgment, a Wayne County Circuit Court jury awarded $75 million to the Estate of Denis Preka on August 8, 2024. The Mike Morse Law Firm successfully secured one of the largest verdicts in the court’s history.

The case, Estate of Denis Preka vs. Nicholas Remington, centered on the tragic death of 21-year-old Denis Preka, a native of Grosse Pointe Farms and a student at the University of Detroit Mercy, who died on March 19, 2019. On the night of his death, he believed he was taking Adderall to help him concentrate for his studies. However, the substance he ingested was later determined to be MDMA, commonly known as ‘Molly,’ a dangerous and illegal drug misrepresented by Defendant Nicholas Remington.

After consuming the substance, Denis began suffering severe side effects, rendering him incapacitated and unresponsive. Instead of seeking help, Remington and others recorded the episode and posted it on Snapchat. Denis’s cause of death was found to be severe edema and congestion of his brain and lungs due to drug intoxication.

The lawsuit, brought by the Mike Morse Law Firm on behalf of Denis Preka’s estate, sought damages for his conscious pain and suffering, as well as the loss of society and companionship for his family. The substantial verdict reflects the jury’s recognition of the profound impact this tragedy has had on Denis’s loved ones.

“This verdict sends a powerful message about the importance of truth and accountability, “said Mike Morse of the Mike Morse Law Firm. “Denis Preka’s life was tragically cut short due to the reckless actions of Nicholas Remington. While no amount of money can bring Denis back, this verdict ensures that justice is served. We hope this case raises awareness about the dangers of drug misrepresentation and brings some measure of peace to his family.”

Denis’s parents, Linda Preka Thom and Jamie Thom, expressed their sorrow and determination to prevent such tragedies from happening to other families: “Our son was full of potential, and his future was bright. We want to ensure that no other family has to endure the pain we are experiencing. This lawsuit is not just about justice for Denis but also about making sure that no other student falls victim to a similar tragedy.”

For more details watch the full press conference here:

Our wrongful death attorneys are ready to help you throughout Michigan. Give us a call and we will discuss your situation, for free!

Content checked by Mike Morse, personal injury attorney with Mike Morse Injury Law Firm. Mike Morse is the founder of Mike Morse Law Firm, the largest personal injury law firm in Michigan. Since being founded in 1995, Mike Morse Law Firm has grown to over 200 employees, served 40,000 clients, and collected more than $1.5 billion for victims of auto, truck and motorcycle accidents. The main office is in Southfield, MI but you can also find us in Detroit, Sterling Heights and many other locations.