Help for Those Injured by the Lineage Fire in Finley, WA
Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers is here to help those affected by water contamination, smoke damage, and health impacts
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Help for Those Injured by the Lineage Fire in Finley, WA
Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers is here to help those affected by water contamination, smoke damage, and health impacts
On April 21, 2024, the Lineage cold storage warehouse fire started in Finley, Washington. The response to the fire was complicated by flare-ups, and the disaster led to a months-long cleanup effort, creating risks for the nearby community and environment. The fire, which began in the facility's freezer and rapidly spread, fueled by drying, once-frozen vegetables like potatoes, corn, peas, and carrots, occurred near the Columbia River and Columbia Irrigation District canal. Firefighters faced significant challenges containing the flames because of structural instability, limited water resources, and low water pressure that made accessing the fire’s center challenging.
Now, local residents, property owners, and others are experiencing damage to their health and property. Some of the immediate concerns include:
- Smoke inhalation: Persistent smoke from the fire degraded air quality, impacting the health of those nearby and causing symptoms like migraines, respiratory issues, and more.
- Water contamination: Nearby water supplies, including wells, may be at risk of contamination from runoff or environmental pollutants due to the fire.
- Property damage: Smoke infiltration and ash damaged homes and interiors in the vicinity, creating cleanup costs and potential health hazards.
The cleanup operation removed an estimated 90,000+ tons of debris, and the impact on the community is continuing to take its toll. For those who experienced harm related to the fire and cleanup operation, Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers is available to offer guidance and pursue compensation. Contact us if you were impacted by this devastating fire. We’re here to help.
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Health and safety risks for residents of Finley, WA
There are reports of local residents experiencing health issues related to the fire. Some of the concerns include:
- Low air quality: Local reports indicate that the fire caused poor air quality in the area. Some health issues reported include migraines, asthma, and nosebleeds. The city acknowledged the problem and distributed air purifiers and masks to residents in response to the health risks.
- Water Contamination: Well water in the area became contaminated, posing health risks to residents. The effort to combat the fire led to runoff that could seep into local drinking water. The community identified contaminants in water samples, including total coliforms, heavy metals, E. coli, and more.
- Smoke Damage: Homes in the area have experienced smoke damage. The prevalence of smoke contamination in local homes caused prolonged exposure for residents.
The risks to health and property are costing locals. Our team is helping victims recover for those injuries.
Claims for damages related to the Finley, WA, Lineage Fire
Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers is representing individuals who suffered damages because of the fire. If you live or work in the area, you might have a claim for the following:
Chemical contamination of well water
Firefighting efforts and attempts to handle the fire-related debris led to runoff. The contaminated runoff poses risks to nearby groundwater sources. Samples from May 23, 2024, taken from a wastewater tank on the site detected contaminants in amounts that exceeded state water standards and safe levels, including:
- PFBS (Perfluorobutane sulfonic acid, a PFAS compound)
- Arsenic
- Lead
Other chemicals, such as chromium and phenols, were also in the sample. These substances have potential health impacts but no specific state drinking water standards.
E. Coli and other bacterial contamination
Samples identified total coliforms and E. coli in nearby wells, including the 12 closest to the fire.
Smoke and property damage
The long-burning fire created risks of contamination in homes. Soot can discolor walls, furniture, and fabrics. Persistent odors can also result, leading to the need for professional cleaning or replacement of upholstery, drapery, and carpets. Indoor air quality can become an issue as well because particulates may enter the home through windows, doors, and ventilation systems.
Health impacts
Elevated air pollution creates health issues. Individuals reported respiratory and other health symptoms linked to smoke exposure. The contamination entered homes where prolonged exposure led to new respiratory issues or exacerbated existing conditions like bronchitis or asthma.
If you believe you might have a claim, reach out to our attorneys. We’re happy to answer your questions and discuss your possible legal recourse.
How Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers can help
Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers experienced mass torts attorneys are representing those harmed because of the Lineage Fire. Mass tort claims allow those impacted by large-scale disasters or environmental contamination to combine their efforts to hold the at-fault party accountable. While plaintiffs can join together, they can also recover for their specific, unique losses rather than as a part of one settlement. Currently, we are accepting claims related to:
- Chemical contamination of drinking water
- coli contamination and related illnesses
- Property damage from smoke infiltration
- Health impact claims for residents suffering from smoke exposure and contamination
If you suffered injuries because of the Lineage Fire, fill out our form for a free case evaluation. Our compassionate attorneys are prepared to listen to you and to fight on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Lineage Fire
What types of contamination are associated with the Lineage fire?
The Lineage Fire is leading to chemical contamination with dangerous substances like lead, PFBS, and arsenic. Bacterial contamination from E. coli may also be related to the fire.
What should I do if my well water is contaminated?
If you’ve tested your water and it shows signs of contamination, avoid drinking it and use bottled water as a precaution. Contact us if you’ve suffered harm because of contaminated water.
What compensation can I seek for fire-related damages?
The compensation available will depend on how the fire impacted you and your family. If the contamination and smoke impacted your health, you may be able to seek damages for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. For those who experienced property damage, you may have a claim related to the costs of cleaning, repairing, or replacing your property.
What evidence do I need for a health impact claim?
If you suffered injuries or health impacts, you should keep all of your medical records. Be sure to see a doctor about any issues you experience, both to get treatment and also to document your symptoms. Follow the advice of your doctor, and contact an attorney to discuss what other evidence you might need to gather in your case.
Contact us to discuss your Lineage Fire claim
Claggett & Sykes Trial Lawyers is prepared to support the Finley community and the victims who suffered injuries and damage because of the smoke and contamination. If you or your family sustained harm related to the Lineage Fire, contact us to discuss your claim.
DISCLAIMER: PAST RESULTS DO NOT GUARANTEE, WARRANT, OR PREDICT FUTURE CASES OR RESULTS. The results listed on this page are specific to the facts and legal circumstances of each of the clients’ cases, and should not be used to form an expectation that the same results could be obtained for other clients in similar matters without reference to the specific factual and legal circumstances of each client’s case.
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