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SOUTHEAST TEXAS RECORD

Thursday, April 25, 2024

Chevron settles asbestos suit

Hyde keith new1

The family of the late Romeo Vera has reached a settlement in their suit against Chevron U.S.A. – the company they blamed for Vera’s asbestos exposure and death.

As previously reported, Gaynell Vera, along with her three children, filed the suit April 11, 2011, in Jefferson County District Court.

Court records show that on Oct. 15 the parties filed a joint motion for dismissal, stating a settlement had been reached.

Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court, granted the motion on Oct. 31, dismissing Chevron with prejudice.

According to the petition, Vera was employed by Gulf Oil Corp., now owned by Chevron, at its Port Arthur refinery, where he was allegedly exposed to asbestos dust and fibers.

“As a result of such exposure, Romeo Vera developed an asbestos-related lung disease, for which he died a painful and terrible death on Oct. 26, 2009,” the suit states.

“The defendant knew for decades that asbestos products could cause … cancer and sill allowed employees to work with and around asbestos products in the workplace.”

The plaintiffs were suing for exemplary and punitive damages.

Provost Umphrey attorney Keith Hyde of Beaumont represents them.

Case No. A189-754

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