Improper Defective Warning Label Results in Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Case Title: Mitchell/Speegle v. TR International Trading Company et al
On March 15, 2018, Tri-Chem Specialty Chemicals LLC had a massive explosion in their facility in Cresson, Texas. The chemical plant purchased, blended and resold chemicals for various customers. On this particular day, two employees were mixing a batch of sodium chlorite and water to create a sodium chlorite liquid solution. Sodium chlorite is a white crystalline powder that is not extremely flammable but can be explosive when combined with other materials and may explode when subjected to heat or fire. Some of the sources for the base chemicals were Dongying Shengya Chemical Co. Ltd., TR International Trading Company, and Access Chemicals and Services.
While mixing the sodium chlorite liquid solution, some of the powdered chemicals fell on the floor. One of the workers, Dylan Mitchell, touched the lid of the sodium chlorite container on the floor with his foot, moving it slightly and causing some sparks. This caught the powdered chemical on fire, and the fire moved onto Mr. Mitchell’s legs, clothes, and hair. As the fire contacted the additional chemical, it caused a huge explosion and fire. Dylan Mitchell was killed in the explosion and fire, while Jason Speegle suffered severe burns.
Upon investigation, the sodium chlorite product, manufactured by Dongying Shengya and sold to wholesaler Access, had a defective warning label. It did not give adequate warning of the product’s dangers or instructions on how to avoid such dangers. In addition, questions were raised about the training procedures at TriChem.
Slack Davis Sanger Partner John Jose represents Mr. Speegle and the estate of Mr. Mitchell in their lawsuits in this ongoing matter.
John Jose is a compassionate attorney who has focused his entire career on helping clients who were seriously injured and those who lost loved ones in accidents. He has extensive experience with cases that arise from oilfield accidents, electrocution accidents, gas explosions, construction accidents, and heavy truck collisions.
Media Coverage
UPDATE: Toxic Air, Explosion Risk Keeps Crews From Texas Plant Fire - Houston Public Media
Workers injured in liquid chemical plant explosion in Texas - CBS News
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