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SOUTHEAST TEXAS RECORD

Thursday, March 28, 2024

Couple blames house fire on electric lines

A Beaumont couple claims downed power lines that remained charged are responsible for a fire that damaged their home.

Gregory and Marcella Young filed a deceptive trade lawsuit against Entergy Texas Inc. on Aug. 16 in Jefferson County District Court.

According to the suit, on Sept. 21, 2008, the Young's home on Lombard Street in Beaumont was severely damaged by fire "due to defective services provided by defendant."

The Youngs say a storm brought down power lines on their home, which they claim they reported to Entergy.

"But (defendant) nonetheless powered the lines, resulting in the fire that destroyed Plaintiffs' home and belongings," the original complaint states.

The lawsuit alleges Entergy is guilty of negligence and/or negligence per se for the following acts:

  • Failure to maintain the subject lines and equipment;
  • Failure to properly inspect the subject lines and equipment;
  • Failure to properly train employees;
  • Failure to ensure that employees are properly qualified;
  • Failure to adequately document complaints and to respond appropriately to those complaints; and
  • Gross negligence.

    The plaintiffs also allege the defendant was engaged in an unconscionable acts according to the Uniform Commercial Code and the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act.

    The Youngs are seeking damages for costs of repairs, loss of use during repairs, mental anguish past and future, lost wages and other damages.

    James Payne of Beaumont's Provost Umphrey Law Firm is representing the plaintiffs.

    The case has been assigned to Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court.

    Jefferson County District Court Case No: A187-590

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