Gary Klinger Joins Multi-Firm Class Action Following SPS Chemical Fire
by Kaitlin Gagnon
Milberg’s Gary Klinger has joined a multi-firm effort to pursue class action litigation against SPS Technologies after a large-scale fire rocked the Philadelphia-area aerospace manufacturing plant several weeks ago.
Following a reported explosion, the four-alarm fire broke out at the 600,000 square foot facility on February 19th , spanning the course of five days and resulting in evacuations and school closures throughout the surrounding area.
At least 250 homes were consequently evacuated.
While the Environmental Protection Agency and Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection have been closely monitoring air and water quality in the region since – given the potential of chemical exposure – SPS Technologies’ history of environmental and workplace violations are now under investigation.
Two motions – one seeking case consolidation of all pending and future cases against SPS, and another requesting approval for interim leadership structure – have been filed with the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
The complaints allege the Defendant’s “failure to inspect, properly maintain, and/or operate its facility” directly contributed to the nature of the fire and that its failure to uphold industry standards has resulted in “hundreds if not thousands” of affected individuals.
The motion for interim leadership structure seeks to appoint Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman and Stranch, Jennings, & Garvy attorneys as Co-Lead Counsel in close partnership with Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky and Levin Sedran & Berman attorneys as Co-Liaison Counsel.
Per the filing, “Proposed Interim Co-Lead Counsel have a proven track-record of success leading complex class action cases, including fire and explosion matters. Their experience will be valuable to the class in this case. Each attorney understands the time, energy, and skill necessary to lead this litigation and all have committed the resources required to ensure the effective and efficient representation of the Class members.”
In a recent publication, Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky acknowledged the firms’ collective advocacy on behalf of affected individuals while recognizing the efforts of emergency responders. “The firms continue to commend the extraordinary work of the army of first responders, from nearly 70 fire companies, who battled the chemical blaze over days, and whose health and welfare is of paramount concern,” their statement reads.
Milberg Senior Partner Gary Klinger will represent the firm on behalf of the victims.
