HOUSTON — A family is suing a Tomball property owner, alleging his negligence led to an explosion that injured the family's father.
Marco Antonio Hernandez-Marquez, individually and as next friend to Julio Cesar Hernandez-Mendoza and Mariah Hernandez-Marquez, minors, and Mary Hernandez-Marquez filed a lawsuit Dec. 6 in Harris County District Court against Mauricio De La Fuente alleging failure to provide a safe place to work.
According to the complaint, on Nov. 4, Marco Antonio Hernandez-Marquez was working as a painter at De La Fuente's private residence in Tomball, when an explosion occurred. The suit says the blast caused Hernandez-Marquez to suffer severe burns all over his body and he was hospitalized for 24 days.
The lawsuit says the plaintiff suffered extreme monetary and physical damages and is presently unable to work and provide for his family. The plaintiffs allege either De La Fuente or his wife, despite warnings and instructions, turned on their air conditioner while the painting was ongoing, causing fumes and vapors from the paint to explode.
The plaintiffs seek trial by jury, monetary relief of more than $1 million, interest, costs of court and all other equitable relief. They are represented by attorneys L. Lee Thweatt and Joseph D. Terry of Terry & Thweatt PC in Houston.
Harris County District Court Case number 2016-83819