BEAUMONT – ExxonMobil and Texaco have been named in a benzene suit alleging a deceased man’s exposure began in the 1950s.
Shawn Hare, representing the estate of Alton Hare, filed the suit Sept. 21 in Jefferson County District Court.
According to the lawsuit, Alton Hare worked at a Texaco refinery in Port Arthur from 1953 to 1983. His job duties included tank cleaning, maintenance and pipefitting.
He then worked at Texaco Island at Port Arthur from 1983 until he retired in 1993, where he was exposed to Varsol, a benzene-containing product, while performing his duties.
As a result, he developed myelodsplasia, “which ultimately led to his untimely death.”
The plaintiff is suing for punitive damages.
He is represented by Tina Bradley, attorney for the Nederland law firm Hobson & Bradley.
Judge Justin Sanderson, 60th District Court, has been assigned to the case.
Case No. B-200713