Two Kentucky residents have filed a lawsuit against Givaudan Flavors Corporation and its parent company, Givaudan U.S., following a catastrophic explosion at the company’s plant on November 12. The blast destroyed the facility, killed two workers, and caused widespread damage to nearby homes, leaving the community shaken and traumatized.
Explosion Causes Destruction and Emotional Trauma
The explosion, caused by a cooking vessel inside the plant, sent debris flying into surrounding homes and yards, shattered windows, and caused structural damage to nearby properties. Edward Roberts and Ana Carolina Gomez Bridge, who live in a home adjacent to the plant, claim in their lawsuit that the blast damaged their property and inflicted emotional and physical distress.
“Givaudan failed miserably to operate their business responsibly, and the consequences were catastrophic,” said Tad Thomas, the residents’ attorney, in a statement.
Company Admits Liability
Ann Leonard, president of Givaudan U.S., acknowledged the company’s responsibility for damages to surrounding homes. During a community meeting last week, Leonard stated that the company is considering relocating the plant away from the neighborhood and rebuilding it elsewhere.
Other Lawsuits and Ongoing Investigations
This is not the first legal action against Givaudan following the explosion. Last week, the family of one of the deceased workers hired legal representation to explore potential claims, and a food delivery driver who was in the vicinity of the blast also filed a lawsuit. The driver, Charles Fowler, alleged that the explosion triggered post-traumatic stress disorder stemming from his military service in Iraq.
Residents reported severe emotional distress, particularly among children who were traumatized by the blast. According to Roberts and Bridge’s lawsuit, the explosion knocked out windows and caused foundation damage to their home. Bridge claims she has suffered significant emotional trauma requiring therapeutic care.
Warnings Allegedly Ignored
The lawsuit alleges that employees at the plant had previously warned Givaudan about the potential dangers of the cooking vessel overheating, but no corrective action was taken. Despite the warnings, the company continued operations, which the plaintiffs argue directly led to the deadly incident.
Legal Action and Accountability
Roberts and Bridge are seeking damages for the physical and emotional toll they have endured, as well as the structural harm to their home. Their lawsuit highlights the need for corporate accountability and raises concerns about industrial safety in residential neighborhoods.
With additional lawsuits looming and community frustration growing, the incident serves as a tragic reminder of the risks posed by industrial operations in close proximity to homes.
