In a harrowing incident that underscores the critical importance of workplace safety, two painters have filed a lawsuit against a construction services company following a severe electrical accident. On March 20, 2025, Roque Yanez and Vismar Zepeda filed their complaint in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, against LaGrone Services, Ltd., seeking justice for the injuries they sustained while working on an apartment complex project.
The plaintiffs, Roque Yanez and Vismar Zepeda, allege that on February 8, 2025, while employed as painters at a construction site in Katy, Texas, they were subjected to unsafe working conditions due to the negligence of LaGrone Services. According to the petition filed by their attorneys from Miller Weisbrod Olesky, LLP, LaGrone Services was responsible for overseeing the project and ensuring the safety of all workers on site. The lawsuit claims that despite knowing about the proximity of power lines to the work area and the need for elevated lifts to paint upper stories of the building, LaGrone Services failed to de-energize or adequately shield these lines.
The plaintiffs describe how they were handing materials to colleagues using a boom lift when it came dangerously close to power lines. This resulted in an electrical arc that severely injured both men. Yanez suffered third-degree burns over much of his body and lost a limb due to electrocution and subsequent fire ignited by his clothing. Zepeda also endured extensive burns and limb loss after attempting to assist Yanez during the incident.
Yanez and Zepeda's legal team argues that LaGrone Services exhibited gross negligence by not taking necessary precautions such as de-energizing power lines or coordinating with utility companies before allowing work near hazardous areas. The complaint states: "Defendant's actions were heedless and reckless...with an actual conscious indifference for the rights, safety and welfare" of those involved.
The plaintiffs are seeking compensatory damages exceeding $1 million for physical pain, mental anguish, loss of earning capacity, disfigurement, medical expenses, and other related costs incurred due to their injuries. Additionally, they are pursuing exemplary damages citing "conscious and flagrant disregard" by LaGrone Services which led directly to their suffering.
As this case progresses through Harris County's judicial system under Case ID 2025-18872 in Court 334 presided over by Judge Tianni Williams with Marilyn Burgess serving as District Clerk—both parties will present evidence regarding alleged breaches in duty owed towards maintaining safe working environments at construction sites like those managed by Defendant LaGrone Services Ltd.. Representing Yanez & Zepeda is Miller Weisbrod Olesky LLP; however details about defense counsel remain undisclosed at present time..