INTRODUCTION
Brian Mierendorf sustained severe injuries while attempting to contain a refrigerant leak in February 2022 at a Kroger store located in Bloomfield Hills,
a suburb to the north of Detroit. According to a statement released by his attorney, Jon Marko, Mierendorf’s actions were motivated by a desire to safeguard nearby customers during the hazardous incident.
The details surrounding the event have been documented in a complaint that was subsequently filed in the Oakland County Circuit Court,
highlighting the serious nature of the situation and the risks involved in his courageous attempt to intervene.
In an effort to safeguard customers in the vicinity, Brian Mierendorf sustained severe injuries while attempting
to contain a refrigerant leak during an incident that took place in February 2022 at a Kroger store located in Bloomfield Hills, a suburb situated to the north of Detroit.
This information was disclosed by his attorney, Jon Marko, in a press release.
The details surrounding the incident have been documented in a complaint that was subsequently filed in the Oakland County Circuit Court,
highlighting the serious nature of the events that unfolded and the risks involved in Mierendorf’s courageous actions to protect others.
The recent explosion resulted in the release of a hazardous substance known as R-22,
a refrigerant that has been widely utilized in various settings, particularly in residential air conditioning systems, as reported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Recognizing the environmental risks associated with R-22, the EPA initiated a gradual phase-out of this chemical in 2010, ultimately leading to a complete ban on its production and importation by 2020, as confirmed by the manufacturing company Trane.
This regulatory action reflects a broader commitment to reducing the use of substances that contribute to ozone depletion and underscores the importance of transitioning to safer alternatives in the refrigeration and air conditioning industries.
Mierendorf’s hands were contaminated with the hazardous R-22 refrigerant, as detailed in the news release.
Since February 2022, he has endured an extensive series of 25 surgical procedures aimed at salvaging the functionality and health of his hands, according to Marko’s statements in the release.
This ongoing medical ordeal highlights the severe consequences of exposure to toxic substances and underscores the challenges faced by individuals in similar situations as they navigate the complexities of recovery and rehabilitation.
An Oakland County jury delivered a significant ruling on June 17, awarding Mierendorf and his wife, Heather, what Marko described as a “record-breaking verdict” against Kroger Co.
of Michigan. The jury’s decision encompassed both economic and non-economic damages, reflecting the couple’s losses from the time of the incident and extending into the foreseeable future.
This comprehensive verdict highlights the jury’s recognition of the profound impact the incident had on the couple’s lives,
ensuring that they receive compensation that addresses both their immediate and long-term needs as a result of the circumstances surrounding the case.
Kroger faced a critical situation at its Bloomfield Township location, where a hazardous incident was imminent.
Tragically, the situation escalated when Brian intervened, resulting in a catastrophic explosion that cost him his hands.
This incident occurred during the day, right in front of the meat department, as toxic chemicals were inadvertently released into the air.
Marko, in a recent statement, expressed the gravity of the event, highlighting Brian’s selfless attempt to protect others in the store from the dangerous chemicals that posed an immediate threat to their safety.
During the trial, Kroger’s legal team attempted to shift the blame onto Brian, portraying his courageous actions in a negative light.
However, the jury’s verdict clearly communicates that Brian’s bravery should be recognized and celebrated.
Marko emphasized that Brian made an extraordinary sacrifice, iterally giving up the use of his hands while fulfilling his duty, a loss that carries immeasurable value not only for himself but also for his family.
This outcome serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring those who act heroically, even in the face of adversity.
What happened in the Kroger store refrigerant explosion?
An attorney representing Kroger, along with a spokesperson for the company, did not provide an immediate response to inquiries made by the Detroit Free Press, which is part of the Network, regarding comments on June 18.
The lack of a timely reply raises questions about the company’s communication strategy and its approach to media relations, particularly in light of ongoing developments that may impact public perception.
As the situation evolves, stakeholders and the public alike may be keen to hear the company’s official stance on the matter at hand.
Marko stated in the announcement that the jury’s decision is considered to be the largest verdict related to premises liability in the state of Michigan.
The incident in question took place on February 1, 2022, when Mierendorf was called to the Kroger store to address issues with the refrigeration lines located on the premises, as detailed in the complaint.
This legal action was initiated in February 2024 on behalf of Mierendorf, who resides in the nearby Macomb County,
highlighting the significant implications of the case for both the individual involved and the broader context of liability claims within the region.
