PALM HARBOR, Fla. — A recent settlement has been reached following a tragic fire that occurred at a Circle K establishment in Pinellas County in December of 2021.
The incident, which took place on December 22nd, resulted in the loss of Sheryll Caballes, a mother of five, who was fatally injured while pumping gas at the Circle K on East Lake Road in Palm Harbor. Caballes was struck and pinned between her vehicle and a fuel dispenser when another driver accidentally backed into the dispenser, causing it to topple over.
Witnessing the devastating event were Caballes’ two children, including her daughter Savannah, who was just 14 years old at the time. Recalling the harrowing experience, Savannah shared with ABC Action News the traumatic details of her mother’s death and the desperate attempts made to save her.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Caballes family took legal action against multiple parties, including Circle K, filing a lawsuit in 2022. By October 2024, court records revealed that a settlement had been reached with Circle K, although specific details of the agreement were not disclosed to the public.
Attorney Richard Millian, who represented the Caballes family, expressed satisfaction with the settlement, emphasizing the importance of closure for the grieving family. Millian highlighted safety concerns at the gas station, pointing out deficiencies such as the absence of an interior bollard that could have potentially averted the fatal accident.
Moreover, the legal team focused on identifying various malfunctions within the gas station’s equipment, including issues with a shear valve and an emergency stop button. According to Millian, these malfunctions played a significant role in prolonging the fire that ultimately claimed Caballes’ life.
Reflecting on her mother’s legacy, Savannah described Caballes as a devoted supporter and a talented individual with a passion for the arts. Despite the tragedy, Savannah emphasized the importance of honoring her mother’s memory by embodying kindness and spreading love in her daily interactions.
The profound impact of the incident has compelled Savannah to mature quickly and embrace independence, navigating through life’s challenges with resilience and a deep sense of purpose. As she continues to honor her mother’s memory through her actions, Savannah remains steadfast in her commitment to carrying on her mother’s legacy of love and compassion.
Efforts to reach out to the legal representation for Circle K regarding the settlement remained unanswered, exemplifying the complexities surrounding the aftermath of the tragic event.