Benzene suit filed against 10 companies

The widow of Earl Juneau is suing Koppers and nine other companies for allegedly exposing her husband to benzene, which caused him to develop lymphoma.

The suit was filed Oct. 20 in Jefferson County District Court.

Premises defendants in the suit include Koppers, Atlantic Richfield, Beazer East and BP Products North America.

The supplier defendants listed are Chevron USA, ExxonMobil, Fisher Scientific, Marathon Oil, Shell and Texaco.

Before his death, Juneau worked at Koppers' Jefferson County refinery as a shift foreman and was routinely exposed to benzene products, according to the complaint.

The suit does not give dates of employment.

As a result of the alleged benzene exposure, "Juneau developed lymphoma, from which he died a painful and terrible death on Feb. 17, 2009," the suit states.

The suit accuses the defendants of knowing for decades that benzene was toxic to humans but still maliciously choose to supply and use the chemical.

The Juneau family is suing for exemplary damages and their benefactor's mental anguish and medical expenses.

The plaintiffs are represented by Provost Umphrey attorney Keith Hyde.

Judge Donald Floyd, 172nd District Court, has been assigned to the case.

Case No. E188-643