Provost Umphrey files petition to perpetuate testimony in possible asbestos claim

Groves resident Ladana Kiffe has filed a petition to perpetuate the testimony of Robert Marze, a former Texaco employee who suffers from lung cancer.

Through Provost Umphrey attorney Keith Hyde, the petition was filed Feb. 28 in Jefferson County District Court. The anticipated defendants in the pending suit are Texaco and Chevron USA.

According to the petition, Marze was diagnosed with lung cancer. The petition does not state when he was diagnosed but does allege the disease "is expected to progress" and ultimately prove fatal.

"The substance of the testimony which petitioner expects to elicit involves Marze's employment and exposure history at Texaco," the suit state, adding that the petitioner alleges his condition was a result of asbestos exposure.

Judge Gary Sanderson, 6oth District Court, has been assigned to the case.

Case No. B189-476