In Re: East Palestine Train Derailment

Case Background

On February 7, 2023, Plaintiff Harold R. Feezle, on behalf of themselves and all others similarly situated, filed a class-action lawsuit in the United States District Court, Ohio Northern (Case number: 4:23cv242). The lawsuit stemmed from the train derailment that occurred near East Palestine, Ohio. Judge Benita Y. Pearson presided over this case.

Cause

On February 3, 2023, a train operated by Norfolk Southern Railway Company derailed near East Palestine, Ohio, while traveling from Illinois to Pennsylvania. Approximately 100 railcars derailed, including 10 to 20 that carried hazardous materials like vinyl chloride. The derailment caused these chemicals to ignite, creating a fire that released toxic fumes and carcinogens into the air. This disaster forced the immediate evacuation of all residents and businesses within a one- to two-mile radius. Plaintiffs, including Harold R. Feezle, Susan E. Scheufele, and David J. Scheufele, filed a class-action lawsuit against Norfolk Southern Railway Company and Norfolk Southern Corporation. They claimed that the Defendants’ negligence caused the derailment, the release of dangerous chemicals, and the subsequent harm.

Injuries

The Plaintiffs and other residents in the affected area suffered significant injuries and damages. Exposure to vinyl chloride, a highly toxic chemical, posed both immediate and long-term health risks. Vinyl chloride has been linked to severe health conditions like liver cancer, brain cancer, and respiratory depression. David J. Scheufele sustained injuries from exposure to the toxic fumes and carcinogens. Many residents experienced physical symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and nausea from the harmful substances released into the air. In addition to health concerns, the Plaintiffs faced substantial financial losses and emotional distress. Harold R. Feezle, a business owner, had to clos