Paula Ebow, alongside other heirs of the late Carl Richard, has filed a lawsuit against Payne & Keller Company in Harris County, Texas, on January 31, 2025. The plaintiffs allege that the defendant's negligence and misconduct led to Richard's exposure to asbestos, resulting in his death from mesothelioma.
The case revolves around Carl Richard's employment from 1943 to 1976, during which he was exposed to asbestos-containing products. The plaintiffs claim that this exposure caused him to contract mesothelioma, a deadly disease linked to asbestos inhalation. They argue that Payne & Keller Company is responsible for Richard’s illness and subsequent death due to their involvement in the sale and distribution of hazardous asbestos products. According to the petition, "Defendant knew or should have foreseen the risk of harm of its unreasonably dangerous products."
The plaintiffs accuse Payne & Keller Company of multiple legal violations including strict liability, breach of warranty, negligence, misrepresentation/fraud, and wrongful death. They assert that the company failed to test its products adequately or warn users about their dangers. Furthermore, they allege that Payne & Keller misrepresented the safety of their products and failed to disclose critical information about asbestos hazards.
In seeking justice for Carl Richard’s suffering and untimely death, the plaintiffs are demanding compensatory damages for pain and suffering endured by Richard before his passing. They also seek punitive damages intended to punish Payne & Keller for their alleged misconduct. Additionally, they request compensation for medical expenses incurred by Richard prior to his death as well as burial costs.
The legal team representing Paula Ebow and her co-plaintiffs is Williams Hart & Boundas L.L.P., with Samantha Smith listed as the attorney on record. The case is presided over by Judge Christopher Matthews in the 152nd Judicial District Court under Case ID 2025-06747.