Workers File Lawsuits After Plant Fire

Employees are seeking more than $1 million in damages.

This photo taken by the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office shows the KMCO Chemical plant Tuesday, April 2, 2019, in Crosby, Texas.
This photo taken by the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office shows the KMCO Chemical plant Tuesday, April 2, 2019, in Crosby, Texas.
Harris County Fire Marshal's Office via AP

HOUSTON (AP) — A growing number of lawsuits are springing from the ashes at a Houston-area chemical plant that caught fire this week killing a worker.

Two plant employees filed separate state suits Wednesday against KMCO LLC, claiming the company failed to maintain a safe work environment or give them proper training ahead of the Tuesday fire in Crosby.

Harris County, where the plant is located, also sued the company Wednesday under state environmental laws.

Randy Villaloboz and Arturo Martinez are each seeking more than $1 million in damages. The county asked for unspecified civil penalties.

KMCO said Thursday that two workers remain hospitalized in critical condition after the fire. Authorities haven't released its cause .

The company said it's focused on caring for workers and protecting the environment and will address legal claims at the "proper" time and place.


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