A new lawsuit has been filed in Columbus by residents from East Palestine in connection to the aftermath of a 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment that resulted in at least seven deaths. The derailment involved a freight train carrying hazardous materials, including toxic gas, in February 2023. The lawsuit alleges that Norfolk Southern, along with various agencies and corporations, are responsible for the deaths and other health issues suffered by residents. The lawsuit claims that the cleanup efforts led by Norfolk Southern were botched and that residents were not given the full story about the incident.
The lawsuit lists the names and obituaries of the seven people who died as a result of the derailment, including an 83-year-old upholsterer, a former mayor, a school employee, and a newborn baby. The lawsuit also mentions other residents who have experienced health issues as a result of the derailment. The lawsuit is being led by attorneys from law firms in Ohio, Florida, and Texas.
In addition to this lawsuit, at least a dozen federal lawsuits have been filed against Norfolk Southern in connection to the derailment, with plaintiffs including businesses and residents. Some of the federal lawsuits accuse Norfolk Southern of influencing Ohio state officials with contributions. Norfolk Southern has not commented on this new legal action.
