The case of Oates v. C. Raymond Davis & Sons involved a tragic construction accident that occurred during the construction of the Conshohocken Rowing Center. Leon Oates, a subcontractor, was injured after falling through a drop ceiling and then down a concrete stairwell. The fall left him with severe brain injuries that resulted in a permanent, debilitating condition where he could no longer walk, speak, or care for himself.

At the time of the accident, Oates was performing caulking work above a drop ceiling without any fall protection, which raised safety concerns. Although other workers had scaffolding provided for elevated tasks, Oates did not receive similar safety accommodations. After falling roughly 30 feet in total, he suffered multiple brain hemorrhages and fractures, leaving him in a state requiring constant care.