City still looking for claim in falling tree accident

Aubrey Stewart paralyzed from chest down

Aubrey Stewart lies in a hospital bed in critical condition.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The city of Jacksonville is still looking for a way to pay $3 million to a teenager who was paralyzed because of possible neglect on the city's part.

The city needs approval from the state Legislature.

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A rotten tree limb fell on Aubrey Stewart, paralyzing him from the chest down in 2011.

His family and neighbors complained numerous times to the city about the tree.

The city of Jacksonville agreed to pay $3.5 million to Stewart, but the law says Florida's government can only pay up to $200,000 in damages, regardless of injuries.

Now, Florida Sen. Rob Bradley of Orange Park has filed a bill to be taken up in next year's state legislative session.

He wants the city to be allowed to pay the millions to Stewart's family.

Reports earlier this year said Florida's Senate president would not allow any claims bills to pass during his term.