BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich. — An Oakland County jury has awarded more than $75 million to a local man who lost most of his hands due to a refrigerant explosion at a Kroger store. This case marks what attorneys claim to be a record liability verdict in Michigan.
Brian Mierendorf, a 37-year-old pipefitter and HVAC technician, sustained life-altering injuries during a work-related incident at the store. While attempting to contain a leak from a defective refrigeration system, he was exposed to R22 refrigerant, a chemical prohibited by the Environmental Protection Agency. As he defended customers from the toxic cloud, the substance exploded into his hands, causing severe chemical burns and injection injuries.
Following the incident in 2020, Mierendorf underwent 25 surgeries, ultimately leading to the amputation of most of his fingers and hands. Testimony from his legal team highlighted the negligence of Kroger in maintaining their refrigeration systems. They argued that the grocery chain failed to keep appropriate maintenance records and did not conduct necessary inspections, crucial in ensuring customer safety.
According to Jon Marko, Mierendorf’s attorney, Kroger treated the situation as a “ticking time bomb,” which ultimately exploded during a busy time in the store. He praised Mierendorf’s courageous efforts to protect others, stating that the verdict underscores the valor of his actions in the face of danger.
The jury’s verdict was delivered in the courtroom of Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Jacob Cunningham. Marko, along with attorneys John Eads and Tyler Joseph, represented Mierendorf. Their case emphasized Kroger’s delayed response in producing a complete incident report, which came almost two years post-explosion.
Mierendorf’s legal team contended that Kroger’s defensive strategy aimed to shift blame onto him for his actions, rather than accepting responsibility for the hazardous conditions. Marko asserted that recognizing Mierendorf’s sacrifice is essential, implying that the outcome illustrates the importance of workplace safety.
Attempts to obtain a statement from Kroger regarding the verdict were unsuccessful.
This case serves not only as a pivotal legal decision for Mierendorf but also raises serious questions about corporate responsibility and the safety of retail environments for both employees and customers.
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