OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. — A jury in Oakland County awarded Brian Mierendorf nearly $77 million after he suffered life-altering injuries from a refrigerant explosion at a Kroger store in Bloomfield Township. The verdict, announced by attorney Jon Marko of Marko Law, marks one of the largest awards in the state for such a case.
Mierendorf, a 37-year-old journeyman pipefitter and HVAC technician, sustained severe chemical burns and injection injuries to his hands while attempting to mitigate the hazardous situation. The incident occurred when a defective refrigerant system leaked toxic R22 refrigerant, which is banned by the Environmental Protection Agency due to its harmful effects.
In a selfless effort to protect nearby customers, Mierendorf tried to stop the leak but was overwhelmed by the dangerous chemical. As a result of the explosion, he underwent 25 surgeries that led to the amputation of most of his hands.
During the trial, it was revealed that Kroger failed to provide crucial maintenance, repair, or inspection records related to the refrigeration system. Despite federal and local regulations requiring them to maintain such documentation, the company only produced a partial incident report more than two years post-incident.
The jury learned that Kroger’s lack of proper oversight contributed significantly to the explosion that injured Mierendorf. In a statement, Marko criticized the grocery chain’s practices, asserting that they ignored the potential dangers at their Bloomfield Township store, comparing it to a “ticking time bomb.”
Local media reached out to Kroger for a comment but did not receive a response regarding the verdict or the incident. The case has raised questions about workplace safety and corporate accountability within the industry.
Marko emphasized the heroism of Mierendorf’s actions, stating that the verdict sends a strong message about the importance of safety measures. He maintained that Mierendorf should be recognized for his decision to act in the face of danger, stating, “Brian literally gave up his hands in the line of duty, and that sacrifice is invaluable.”
The case reflects broader concerns about the responsibilities companies have to ensure the safety of their employees and customers alike. The significant award not only aims to compensate Mierendorf and his family but also serves as a reminder of the critical need for stringent safety practices in workplaces.
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