Deacon Injured by Fall Into Grave Sues Los Angeles Archdiocese

A deacon who accidentally fell into a grave during a burial at San Gabriel Mission Cemetery is suing the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.

City News Service reported Monday that Alfonso Valles broke his left arm in several places when a platform he was standing on collapsed and caused him to fall in August 2012.

The claim, which names the California archdiocese and the San Gabriel Mission as defendants, was filed last week. It seeks unspecified damages.

Archdiocese spokeswoman Monica Valencia says Valles was assisted by others present and completed the funeral service.

Valencia says the archdiocese’s insurer has been working with the deacon to resolve the matter.