A catastrophic workplace accident has led to a lawsuit against a major energy company. On June 28, 2024, Anthony Henry and Kaydian Henry filed a complaint in the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, accusing Duke Energy Florida, Inc. and Duke Energy Florida, LLC of intentional torts and negligence.
The plaintiffs allege that on February 21, 2022, Anthony Henry was severely injured while executing a planned switching order as part of his employment with Duke Energy. According to the complaint, a distribution switchgear exploded causing an arc flash that resulted in serious and permanent injuries to Mr. Henry. The lawsuit claims that Duke Energy had prior knowledge of similar accidents or explicit warnings about the dangers but failed to act responsibly.
The complaint outlines several failures by Duke Energy including not training employees in safe work practices, not maintaining safe premises or equipment, and not conducting reasonable inspections to identify hazardous conditions. Specifically, it mentions failures such as "failing to prevent contamination of the C-phase termination" and "failing to implement adequate policies and procedures regarding switchgear maintenance." The plaintiffs argue that these actions were virtually certain to result in injury due to the company's gross negligence or willful disregard for safety.
Anthony Henry asserts that he was unaware of the risks involved because Duke Energy allegedly concealed or misrepresented the dangers associated with his tasks. As a result of this breach of duty, Mr. Henry has suffered severe burns and other damages including physical distress, emotional trauma, medical expenses, loss of wages, and an inability to lead a normal life. His injuries are described as permanent with ongoing suffering anticipated.
In addition to seeking compensatory damages exceeding $50,000 for Anthony Henry's injuries from both Duke Energy entities separately (Counts I & II), Kaydian Henry is also suing for loss of consortium (Counts III & IV). She claims that her husband's injuries have deprived her of his comfort, society, and companionship.
The plaintiffs demand judgment against both Duke Energy Florida entities for damages along with costs incurred due to the incident. They are also requesting a jury trial on all issues presented in their complaint.
Representing the plaintiffs is Ryan L. Hicks from Hughes Law based in Tampa, Florida. The case has been assigned Case Number 24-002909-CI under Judge Ken Burke's jurisdiction at the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court in Pinellas County.