Pittsburgh Hospital Sued over Football Player’s Death

The family of former Pittsburgh Steeler Dwight White is suing the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and three doctors, claiming negligence contributed to his death.

Monday’s suit in Allegheny County Court says one of White’s doctors was out of town and another prescribed an over-the-counter medication when he weakened after being discharged from back surgery in May 2008.

White’s wife took him to an emergency room when his condition worsened. A blood clot was diagnosed in his lung, and he died June 6, 2008, at UPMC Presbyterian hospital at age 58.

White family attorney Art Schwarzwaelder says the athlete’s doctors missed chances to save his life.

The suit seeks damages of more than $25,000. UPMC declined to comment Tuesday.

White was a member of the Steelers’ Steel Curtain defense, which won four Super Bowls in the 1970s.