Big Lots Stores Inc. is denying a Wiscasset woman's claim that negligence at its Brunswick store is to blame for her foot being injured in September 2006. In an August 2 lawsuit filed in Lincoln County Superior Court in Wiscasset, Susan James claims a falling dolly crushed her foot while she and her grandson were looking at toys.

The Ohio-based store chain filed its response to the suit August 13. In it, attorney Thomas Marjerison maintains an unnamed third-party's “intervening negligence” led to the injury. In addition, James “was guilty of comparative negligence … equal to or greater than any negligence” on Big Lots' part, the response states.

Marjerison's response asks the court to find in the corporation's favor, and award Big Lots Inc. its fees and costs associated with James' suit.