Couple Sues Longhorn Steakhouse After Antlers Crash Down on Them

Dennis and Patricia Swartz seek $150,000 each in damages for injuries and mental anguish from the incident at a Nashville-area location.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A couple is suing Longhorn Steakhouse after they were seriously injured when a set of antlers crashed down on them while they were eating at the restaurant's Nashville-area location in February 2025. Dennis and Patricia Swartz are seeking $150,000 each in damages, claiming personal injury, lasting mental anguish, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life and certain social and recreational activities.

Why it matters

Incidents involving falling or malfunctioning decor at restaurants and other public establishments can raise concerns about safety standards and liability. This lawsuit could set a precedent for how such cases are handled in the future.

The details

According to the lawsuit, the Swartzes were eating at the Longhorn Steakhouse in Madison, Tennessee when a set of antlers mounted on the wall suddenly fell and crashed down on them. The couple claims they suffered serious injuries as a result of the incident.

  • The incident occurred in February 2025 at a Longhorn Steakhouse location in Madison, Tennessee.

The players

Dennis and Patricia Swartz

A couple who were dining at a Longhorn Steakhouse location in Madison, Tennessee when they were injured by falling antlers.

Longhorn Steakhouse

A popular steakhouse chain where the incident took place.

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What’s next

The lawsuit is currently pending, and the court will determine whether Longhorn Steakhouse is liable for the Swartzes' injuries and damages.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of restaurants and other public establishments ensuring the safety of their decor and furnishings to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.