Gas tank explosion spews shrapnel all over woman's property, suit claims

A Nederland resident claims a gas tank explosion sent shrapnel flying all over her property, injuring her and damaging her home and car.

Alleging Petrofuels Quality Marketing negligently failed to maintain its petroleum storage facilities, Larenda Stringer filed suit against the company on Sept. 21 in Jefferson County District Court.

Court papers show that on April 14 Stringer was at home when a Petrofeuls storage tank located next to her house exploded.

"The explosion send (sic) debris and shrapnel onto the property causing injury and damage to plaintiff's property, including her car," the suit states. "As a proximate result ... Stringer sustained injuries to her body."

The suit does not describe her injuries.

Stringer alleges Petrofuels negligently failed to train and supervise its employees, in addition to failing to maintain its tank.

She is suing for past and future medical expenses, lost earnings and mental anguish.

Beaumont attorney Clay Dugas is representing her.

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

Case No. A188-390