Kentucky Woman Sues Lexington Pie Shop After Salmonella Illness

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A Kentucky woman has filed a lawsuit against a Lexington pie shop, Missy's Pie Shop, alleging she became seriously ill and was hospitalized following a salmonella outbreak linked to its desserts in June 2025. The lawsuit claims 10 other people also got salmonella after eating at the pie shop, which operates as part of Ramsey's Diner.

Why it matters

Food safety and sanitation issues at restaurants can have serious public health consequences, leading to illnesses, hospitalizations, and legal action. This case highlights the importance of proper food handling and preparation practices to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses like salmonella.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Kathy Sears of London, Kentucky ate at Missy's Pie Shop on June 20, 2025. Two days later, she experienced severe symptoms and was diagnosed with salmonella and sepsis, requiring hospitalization on June 25. The lawsuit alleges the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department reported 10 salmonella cases in July 2025 tied to meals eaten at various Ramsey's Diner locations, including Missy's Pie Shop, between June 17 and 20. Health officials said each person who became ill had consumed either a custard-based pie topped with meringue or a cheesecake dessert, but did not definitively identify the exact source of the contamination.

• Kathy Sears ate at Missy's Pie Shop on June 20, 2025.
• Sears was hospitalized for treatment on June 25, 2025.
• The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department reported 10 salmonella cases in July 2025 tied to meals eaten at Ramsey's Diner locations between June 17 and 20, 2025.

What’s next

The judge will determine if Kathy Sears' lawsuit against Missy's Pie Shop can proceed to a jury trial.