Gas station allegedly sold contaminated diesel fuel, suit claims

GRETNA – A gas station is being sued by the owner of a bus who claims the vehicle broke down after she purchased bad diesel fuel.

Debra Foucher filed suit against Ames Discount Zone LLC and its insurer in the 24th Judicial District Court on April 1.

Foucher alleges that she purchased diesel fuel for the 1998 International school bus from Ames Discount Zone located at 6229 Westbank Expressway in Marrero on Aug. 21, 2013. The plaintiff asserts that two days later the bus engine failed and she was advised by her mechanic the the problem was due to contaminated diesel fuel. Foucher claims the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, which oversees fuel sales in the state, investigated the diesel fuel sold at Ames Discount Zone and found it did not meet the specifications for type 2 diesel fuel and should not be used.

The plaintiff alleges due to the bad fuel her vehicle has been damaged and she can no longer use it for her job as a bus driver.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for repairing damages to the bus, replacement fees, reimbursement for lost revenues, emotional distress and attorney’s fees.

Foucher is represented by attorney M. Ali Shahlaei of Gretna.

The case has been assigned to Division J Judge Stephen C. Grefer.

Case no. 737-060.