Provost Umphrey files petition to perpetuate testimony in probable asbestos suit

Bronson resident Rozella Wilkerson has filed a petition to perpetuate the testimony of Ben Wilkerson, a former Texaco employee who suffers from lung cancer.

Through Provost Umphrey attorney Keith Hyde, the petition was filed Nov. 17 in Jefferson County District Court.

The anticipated defendants in the pending suit are Texaco and Chevron USA.

According to the petition, Wilkerson 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 Wilkerson's employment and exposure history at Texaco," the suit state, adding that the petitioner alleges his condition was a result of asbestos exposure.

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

Case No. E191-372