A catastrophic explosion has led to a lawsuit filed in Palm Beach County, Florida. On June 5, 2024, Maurice Best filed a complaint against Preventive Fire and Safety Equipment, Inc., alleging negligence that resulted in severe injuries.
The incident dates back to December 14, 2023, when Best hired Preventive Fire to perform maintenance on his mobile food truck at his residence in Royal Palm Beach. According to the complaint, Cory T. Ryan, an employee of Preventive Fire, assured Best that everything was fine despite Best reporting a gas smell. Moments later, an explosion occurred, causing significant injuries to Best who was subsequently transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Burn Unit.
Preventive Fire's website claims they are "dedicated to providing high-quality fire prevention and safety services" with a team of experienced professionals. However, the plaintiff argues that the company failed in its duty of care by not conducting proper risk assessments or developing comprehensive safety protocols for handling gas leaks in food trucks. The complaint highlights several alleged failures including inadequate training for employees like Ryan and insufficient emergency plans.
Best is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for his permanent bodily injuries and scarring. He accuses Preventive Fire of negligence for failing to identify potential hazards and mitigate risks associated with gas leaks. The lawsuit demands judgment for damages and requests a jury trial.
Representing Maurice Best is attorney Robert Resnick from West Palm Beach-based law firm Lytal Reiter Smith Ivey & Fronrath. The case will be presided over by Judge Joseph Abruzzo under Case ID: 502024CA005260XXXAMB Div: AH.