Sheri Lynn King files wrongful-death lawsuit against Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. following fatal chemical tank collapse
Sheri Lynn King filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. and Nippon Paper Industries USA after a chemical tank collapse in Longview, Washington, killed 11 workers. The lawsuit alleges that the company was negligent in maintaining, inspecting, and properly shutting down equipment, as well as failing to train and supervise employees. The brothers of Sheri Lynn King, who were killed in the incident, were burned and crushed by approximately 900,000 gallons of scalding white liquor and debris. Records show the plant had a history of safety complaints and poor maintenance. The state Department of Ecology issued 54 environmental violation notices since 2016, and the Department of Labor and Industries investigated over a dozen safety complaints since 2018. A report from the U.S. Chemical and Safety Board stated that the company knew the tank was not fit for continued service nearly a year before the failure. Nippon Dynawave spokesperson Sam Jefferies stated the company is working with regulators to establish a complete record as the investigation continues.
Sources
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Records reveal safety complaints, poor maintenance at site of deadly Washington pulp mill disaster
apnews.com
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Mother of two brothers killed in chemical tank implosion files lawsuit against Nippon Dynawave
KPTV