Singleton Schreiber, a fire litigation firm, has initiated a class action lawsuit against several Hawaiian utility companies. The lawsuit alleges that these companies are responsible for a wildfire that released a dangerous combination of toxic chemicals into the air and water, necessitating long-term medical monitoring for affected residents.

The legal action also underscores the increased risk of severe harm, including various forms of cancer and potential fatalities, within the Maui population due to this extensive exposure. As the air filled with smoke, the toxins infiltrated the soil and contaminated the water supply to such an extent that authorities advised against drinking the water, even after boiling.

Gerald Singleton, Managing Partner at Singleton Schreiber, stated, "Globally, wildfire smoke is the leading cause of over 330,000 premature deaths annually. While the immediate danger is the fire itself, the lingering poisonous smoke persists in the air for days and weeks after the flames are extinguished. When combined with the substantial contamination of the water supply, the people of Maui are confronted with the repercussions of this human-induced catastrophe for the rest of their lives."

The lawsuit alleges that Hawaiian Electric Industries, Hawaiian Electric Company, Hawai'i Electric Light Company, and Maui Electric Company failed in their duty to design, construct, operate, and maintain their electrical infrastructure properly, directly leading to the devastating Lahaina Fire. This fire resulted in widespread destruction, injuries, and loss of life. Yet, the smoke generated a distinct but equally hazardous predicament, inundating Maui's atmosphere with a mixture of toxins and pollutants.

The blaze ravaged structures, gas stations, vehicles, boats, pipes, rubber, dyes, and more, all releasing ash and dust laden with chemicals known to cause cancer. These substances heighten the risk of cancers, cognitive impairments, and birth defects. The list of these chemicals comprises asbestos, lead, benzene, arsenic, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, among others.

Col Paul Starita, USMCR Ret., the lead attorney for the firm in Hawaii, remarked, "The Lahaina Fire has already claimed a minimum of 115 lives, with 850 individuals still unaccounted for. However, the eventual count of wrongful deaths attributed to this disaster will likely far exceed the fire's immediate casualties. This environmental catastrophe will impact individuals of all ages and backgrounds. The air and water became contaminated due to the negligence of these utility companies in properly managing their equipment."

The lawsuit is identified as Gilberto Sanchez et al. v. Hawaiian Electric Industries, Hawaiian Electric Company, Hawai'i Electric Light Company, Maui Electric Company, and it has been filed in the Second Circuit Court of Hawai'i under Case No. 2CCV-23-0000234.

 

Source: prnewswire.com

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