The city of Port Arthur is suing DaimlerChrysler, alleging several of the passenger buses they purchased have caught on fire while in operation.
The suit was filed Jan. 15 in Jefferson County District Court.
According to the lawsuit, on Dec. 14, 2004, the city approved the purchase of 10 DaimlerChrysler SLF Transit buses for its transit system.
The first incident of a bus catching on fire occurred on Feb. 25, 2010, at the intersection of Bluebonnet Avenue and Vicksburg Avenue.
Other incidents of buses catching on fire include:
- March 12 at the intersection of Terminal Road and W. 15 Street
- June 12 at the Twin City Wal-Mart parking lot
The suit accuses DaimlerChrysler of negligently manufacturing defective vehicles and placing them into the stream of commerce.
DaimlerChrysler is further accused of deceptive trade practices and breach of warranty.
The city is suing for the loss of profits it has suffered because of the alleged defective buses.
Provost Umphrey attorney Joe Fisher III of Beaumont represents the city.
Judge Donald Floyd, 172nd District Court, is assigned to the case.
Case No. E193-822