East Palestine Residents to Recieve Update on Train Derailment Lawsuits, Allegations Against Settlement Administrator
east Palestine, OH – Attorneys representing over 800 individuals impacted by teh 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine are hosting a town hall meeting on September 22nd at 6:00 PM at the Columbiana Best Western to update residents on ongoing legal action. The meeting will focus heavily on concerns surrounding the handling of the $600 million settlement and potential legal challenges against Kroll, the former court-appointed settlement administrator.
The lawsuits, now consolidated in Columbiana County Common Pleas Court, allege a failure by multiple defendants – including Norfolk Southern, local government entities, healthcare providers, and school districts – to protect public safety and adequately warn residents about the dangers posed by the released chemicals.
Key Issues to be Discussed:
* Concerns over the $600 Million Settlement: Attorneys from Keenan Law Firm and Bressman Law will present public records and compare them to facts previously presented to the court and community to secure settlement approval.
* Allegations Against Kroll: Judge Benita Pearson removed Kroll earlier this year due to concerns over claim processing, including alleged overpayments, delays in disbursement, and missing documentation. Legal action against Kroll is reportedly being pursued.
* Ongoing Health & Safety Concerns: Mindy Bish of Keenan Law stated that residents were told their homes were safe when, in fact, they were not and continue to pose risks. She also warned of potential long-term health consequences for some residents.
* Allegations of a Cover-Up: attorneys claim the lawsuit stems from “the unnecessary and hazardous actions of Norfolk Southern and everyone who helped to cover it up.”
lawsuit Details:
The consolidated lawsuit accuses 52 defendants of negligence, nuisance, strict liability, trespass, and other claims. Notably, the suit includes wrongful death claims related to seven individuals – Margie mae Lewis, Margo Zuch, Randy Swogger, John R. Moore, Viola Noel, Edward Zins, and Carlyn Tigelman – who allegedly died consequently of the derailment’s aftermath.
Open to All Residents:
The town hall is open to all East Palestine and neighboring community residents, not just those involved in the lawsuits. attorneys are encouraging broad attendance, urging residents to “hear the truth and see the truth,” and to be aware of potential misinformation circulating on social media.
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