Nentwig v. Willamette

Nentwig v. Willamette Industries, Inc.

United States District Court, District of Kansas, Docket #: 2:02CV02143CM

Judge: Carlos Murgia

John E. Franke and Nikki E. Cannezzaro, attorney for defendant Willamette Industries, Inc.

Type of Claim: Product liability. Plaintiff, male age 35, was a plumber working as a sub-contractor in the construction of a new house. Plaintiff was in the basement installing a plumbing brace between two manufactured wood I-beams which were produced by defendant. The brace popped out from the I-beam and hit plaintiff in the eye. Plaintiff claimed the wood in the I-beam was defective which caused the plumbing brace to release under pressure. Defendant claimed the brace was improperly installed.

Damages Alleged: Loss of eye (eyeball) requiring three surgeries and loss of income.

Plaintiff’s Experts: Ruben Smulsky, Ph.D. (wood expert) (Columbus, MS); Roger Peugeot (plumbing contractor); and videotape deposition of Fred S. Bodker, M.D.

Defendant’s Experts: None presented.

Demand Before Trial: $1,250,0000.

Offer Before Trial: None.

Verdict: For defendant.