Tragedy Strikes: Family of Deceased Worker Files Lawsuit Against Employer
A devastating wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against Impact Plastics, alleging the company prioritized profits over the safety of its employees during Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic floodwaters in Tennessee. The tragic event occurred on September 27, claiming the life of 55-year-old Johnny Peterson, a loving father of four, among others.
A Preventable Tragedy
Peterson was one of the employees who perished after the factory lost power, and their cars were submerged in water. Surviving workers revealed they were not given permission to leave until it was too late. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of Peterson’s next of kin, Alexa Peterson, by attorney Alex Little, accuses the company of having no emergency action plan in place, despite being located in a federally-designated flood zone.
CEO’s Questionable Actions
The lawsuit alleges that Impact Plastics CEO Gerald O’Connor Jr. and senior management discreetly exited the building through a back door, securing business documents from their private offices, while leaving employees to fend for themselves. This shocking revelation has sparked outrage and demands for accountability.
A Father’s Final Moments
The lawsuit paints a heart-wrenching picture of Peterson’s final moments. He had climbed into the bed of a semi-trailer in a desperate attempt to escape, sending a poignant last text to his daughter Alexa at 1:17 p.m.: “I love you allllll.” This was the last message she received from her father.
A Pattern of Negligence
Peterson’s tragic death is one of five fatalities among Impact Plastics employees resulting from Helene’s floodwaters. The lawsuit asserts that the company was aware of the flood risks and failed to act, despite employees’ requests to leave. The family’s attorney has vowed to hold the company accountable for its alleged negligence.
A Community Mourns
The loss of Johnny Peterson has sent shockwaves through the community, with his family and friends mourning the loss of a loving father and devoted member of society. As the lawsuit moves forward, one thing is clear: justice must be served for the victims of Impact Plastics’ alleged recklessness.
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