The City of Pella has been served with two separate lawsuits. In July of 2010, two Kansas City teenagers, Gael Chrispin and Nehmson Sanon drowned during an event hosted by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at the Pella Aquatic Center.

The lawsuits filed by the boy’s parents allege that the City and FCA demonstrated negligence during the event at the pool, and that they are liable for damages from the drowning. Additionally the lawsuit filed in Iowa District Court alleges that the city demonstrated Criminal Negligence in its operations and maintenance of the Pella Aquatics Center.

According to court documents, the Plaintiffs allege that the FCA held documentation that the boys could not swim. Additionally, they allege the pool was not adequately lit, and that the pool’s water clarity was low.