Ralphs Grocery Co. v. Workers' Compensation Appeals Board

While on disability leave and then laid off, Moeller received a call at home from his employer Ralphs (plaintiff) informing him he could return the next day, but only part-time and without benefits at reduced pay; given his colon cancer and mounting medical bills, the stress of this news reportedly triggered a fatal heart attack that same night, before he had actually returned to work. His widow's workers' compensation claim was granted by the board (defendant), which found the death occurred in the course of employment, and Ralphs sought review.