Guille v. Swan

19 Johns. 381 (1822)

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Guille v. Swan

New York Supreme Court
19 Johns. 381 (1822)

Facts

Charles Guille (defendant) launched a hot-air balloon near an area farmed by Swan (plaintiff). Guille encountered difficulty in the air and ended up hanging off the side of the balloon’s basket. As the balloon came down, Guille called for help, attracting the attention of approximately 200 people. Guille’s balloon landed on Swan’s crops, causing about $15 in damage. However, the crowd of helpers and onlookers broke through fences and trampled additional crops, causing Swan another $75 in damages. Swan sued Guille for the damages. The trial court told the jury that Guille was responsible for all of Swan’s damages relating to the balloon crash, and the jury returned a verdict against Guille for $90. Guille appealed the verdict, arguing that he was responsible only for the $15 of damages he had caused directly.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Spencer, C.J.)

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