Class action filed day after chemical plant explosion in Iberia

An Iberia couple has filed a class action lawsuit over a chemical plant explosion that occurred on Tuesday, June 14.

McKinnis Armstrong, for himself and on behalf of his judicially placed granddaughter, Keandria Augustine and Cynthia Armstrong, wife of McKinnis Armstrong, individually and on behalf of a class of persons similarly situated, filed suit against Multi-Chem Group and XYZ Insurance Co. on June 15 in federal court in New Orleans.

On June 14, 2011 the chemical plant located in Iberia exploded and burned, releasing materials into the atmosphere. The lawsuit states the explosion released toxic, dangerous and/or noxious chemicals, fluids, liquids, gasses, fumes, aerosols, carcinogens, particulates, reagents, and/or other such substances.

The defendants are accused of negligence for failing to design, implement or adhere to adequate safety policy and preventative measures, failing to adhere to reasonably safe practices, failing to control chemical processes, failing to adequately inspect, detect hazards or defects, maintain, repair, replace and remedy so as to prevent explosion and fire and failing to warn.

The defendants are also accused of negligence for failing to act in a reasonable manner, failing to comply with regulations, laws, statutes and ordinances, failing to meet applicable standards of care and failing to contain explosion and fire.

The lawsuit is seeking damages for loss of property, loss of use of property, diminution of property, stigmatization of and displacement from property, medical disease, fear of disease, lost chance of survival, lost life expectancy, physical and mental pain, suffering and anguish, medical expenses, aggravation of preexisting diseases, physical disfigurement and impairment, interest and court costs.

The plaintiffs are represented by New Orleans attorney Brian A. Gilbert. A jury trial is requested.

U.S. District Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle is assigned to the case.

Case No. 2:11-cv-01410