Home / Disasters and Accidents / Tank Failure Lawsuit: "Run to Failure" Policy Alleged
Tank Failure Lawsuit: "Run to Failure" Policy Alleged
10 Sep
Summary
- Lawsuit claims company ignored warnings before fatal tank rupture.
- Widow alleges a company "policy" of running equipment until failure.
- Eleven workers died after a tank failed on May 26, 2026.
A wrongful death lawsuit alleges that Nippon Dynawave, the operator of the Longview plant, deliberately ignored critical warnings about a tank's safety. The suit, filed on behalf of Mackenzie Ammons, whose husband Jared was one of 11 fatalities, claims the company followed a "run to failure" policy.
Despite multiple warnings from a contractor dating back to February 2025, indicating the tank holding caustic white liquor had eroded past safety margins and faced a "high likelihood of failure," Nippon Dynawave allegedly continued its operation. The lawsuit asserts this was a business decision that ultimately cost employees their lives.
Mackenzie Ammons shared her profound grief, noting her husband had expressed safety concerns and was seeking new employment. She hopes the lawsuit will lead to improved safety measures at the mill and accountability for the incident.
Nippon Dynawave acknowledged the lawsuit but declined to comment on the ongoing litigation, stating their focus remains on supporting the Longview community. The U.S. Chemical Safety Board had previously expressed "great concern" over the tank's inspections and warnings.
