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SOUTHEAST TEXAS RECORD

Friday, March 29, 2024

24 companies named in suit over man's asbestos exposure

Blevins

The representative of a deceased man's estate has filed a suit against 24 defendant corporations, alleging the man died from mesothelioma after he was exposed to asbestos during the course of his career.

Delia M. Drennan alleges Ricky Bob Drennan inhaled significant amounts of asbestos fibers during his work at Burton Shipyard with products designed, manufactured or distributed by the defendant companies.

Included in the suit as defendants are Armstrong International Inc., CBS Corp., Clark-Reliance Corp., Crane Co., Flowserve Inc., Ford Motor Co., Foster Wheeler Energy Corporation, Garlock Sealing Technologies, Goulds Pumps, Guard-Line Inc., Honeywell International, Icon Management Systems and IMO Industries.

Delia M. Drennan blames the defendant companies for a number of negligent acts, including their failure to warn Ricky Bob Drennan of the dangers associated with asbestos and their failure to provide Ricky Bob Drennan with instructions on what would be safe apparel to wear while working around asbestos.

In addition, the the plaintiff claims companies conspired to withhold medical data from the public about the dangers of asbestos and instead conspired to release misleading and incorrect information, according to the complaint filed July 31 in Jefferson County District Court.

The suit also alleges Burton Shipyard failed to provide safe equipment for Ricky Bob Drennan's use, failed to provide adequate safety measures and protection against the asbestos dust, failed to warn Ricky Bob Drennan of the inherent dangers of asbestos contamination, failed to maintain the environmental conditions of its work site and failed to follow state and government statutes.

Because of the defendant companies' actions, Ricky Bob Drennan experienced physical pain, suffering, mental anguish, physical impairment and disfigurement, incurred medical expenses and lost his earning capacity, the complaint says.

Delia M. Drennan claims she has lost Ricky Bob Drennan's care, maintenance services, support, advice, counsel, consortium, companionship and society, has suffered mental anguish and lost inheritance.

Delia M. Drennan is seeking general damages, plus costs, interest at the legal rate and other relief to which she may be entitled.

Jeffrey B. Simon and Laura Cabutto of Simon, Eddins and Greenstone in Dallas and Bryan O. Blevins Jr. and Colin D. Moore of Provost Umphrey Law Firm in Beaumont will be representing them.

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

Jefferson County District Court case number: A184-595.

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