Man sues North Hollywood LA Fitness over alleged pepper-spray exposure
A Los Angeles resident has filed a lawsuit against an LA Fitness gym in North Hollywood, claiming a security guard’s pepper spray caused him severe health problems.
In a lawsuit filed this week, Albert Dishoian claims that a security guard at an LA Fitness location on Laurel Canyon Boulevard in North Hollywood released a pepper-spray canister during his August 2024 workout. Dishoian says the spray quickly spread through the facility, causing him and nearby members to experience breathing problems, burning eyes and a lingering cough. After receiving on-site paramedic care, he was taken to a hospital where doctors diagnosed bronchospasms, a direct inguinal hernia and injuries he describes as resulting from the pepper-spray fumes.
The complaint charges the gym with premises liability and general negligence, asserting that the company had a non-delegable duty to keep the premises free of toxic hazards and to warn patrons. LA Fitness issued a statement that it would not comment on the case.
Why it matters
The suit highlights potential safety and liability issues for gyms that use security measures like pepper spray.
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