Boyd v. Racine Currency Exchange, Inc.

306 N.E.2d 39 (1973)

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Boyd v. Racine Currency Exchange, Inc.

Illinois Supreme Court
306 N.E.2d 39 (1973)

  • Written by Rose VanHofwegen, JD
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Facts

Blanche Murphy worked as a bank teller at the Racine Currency Exchange, Inc. (collectively defendants). Customer John Boyd was in the bank transacting business when a bank robber came into the bank. Murphy was behind a bulletproof glass partition between the tellers and customers. The robber put a gun to Boyd’s head and threatened to shoot unless Murphy either gave the robber money or opened the partition door. Murphy did neither. Instead, she dropped to the floor behind the partition. The robber shot Boyd, killing him. Boyd’s widow sued Murphy and the Exchange for negligence, arguing that a business proprietor owed a duty to comply with criminal demands if refusal would subject invitees to an unreasonable risk of harm. The trial court found no such duty arose, but the appellate court reversed, prompting an appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Ryan, J.)

Dissent (Goldenhersh, J.)

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