COLUMBUS, Ohio — A Columbus family is suing Kia America following the death of their relative, 36-year-old Matthew Moshi, who was killed after he was hit by a stolen vehicle last year.
The crash happened on Nov. 25 in the area of Hilliard-Rome and Beacon Hill roads in Prairie Township.
Investigators said a 15-year-old was driving a Kia Optima with three other juveniles inside when they ran a stop sign and crashed into a Honda Civic. The driver of the Honda, identified as Moshi, died days after the crash.
The lawsuit was filed last week, according to family attorney Terry Hummel with Scott Schiff & Associates. It demands judgment against the car manufacturer in an amount greater than $25,000 as compensatory damages, in addition to court costs.
The lawsuit's allegations against Kia include negligence, product liability and wrongful death.
10TV reached out to Kia for comment on the lawsuit and received a response which read in part:
"Kia America mourns this devastating tragedy alongside the Columbus community and we extend our deepest condolences to the family who lost a loved one. While we do not comment on potential litigation, it is important to note that Kia continues to take comprehensive action to enhance the security of our vehicles in an effort to prevent criminals from using methods of theft popularized on social media to break the law and steal or attempt to steal certain vehicles models."
Moshi's wife, Qualitee, told 10TV in December that her family is heartbroken by the loss. He leaves behind two young kids.
“To not have those days anymore for my children is very hard to see. They won’t have those moments with their father,” said Qualitee.
The driver of the stolen Kia is charged with aggravated vehicular homicide and involuntary manslaughter and receiving stolen property.