On July 3, 2019, Juanita Edwards, then 84-years-old, went outside to get her newspaper. After she went back inside her home, it exploded. Natural gas that had been seeping out of a defective line and into the ground beneath her home had found an ignition source. According to the wrongful death lawsuit filed against New Mexico Gas Co., “Decedent’s home erupted in an explosion while she was inside.”
The neighbors heard Ms. Edwards screaming, but were unable to help her. She was found dead inside her home. The lawsuit has alleged “slip-shod work” regarding the construction of the gas distribution system. It further claims that over time, the poorly welded pipeline near Ms. Edwards’ home had aged and began leaking. The suit claims the gas company failed to properly inspect its system for leaks, and that the soil around Ms. Edwards’ home was saturated with gas. Lastly, the suit alleges “As a result of the negligence of the gas company and the gas company’s conduct detailed above, decedent suffered horribly and sustained a fatal injury and thus suffered significant damages.”
When someone is injured or dies as a result of another’s negligent act, financial recovery may be available. Such recovery is particularly important when permanent, life changing injuries are incurred. It is important to contact someone who understands the intricacies of the injured party’s right to recover.
Abraham Watkins offers a free consultation to anyone wishing to pursue a claim for injuries that occurred as a result of another’s negligence.