West Park, Florida – Three families affected by a devastating propane explosion that rocked their West Park neighborhood in December have taken legal action against the responsible parties. The explosion, which occurred at a home on SW 20th St., resulted in extensive damage to surrounding properties and left multiple families in turmoil.
Following the incident, lawsuits were filed against both the owners of the home where the explosion originated, Redes Ledix and Pierre Mertus, as well as the company responsible for the propane tank on the property, AmeriGas Propane Inc. The explosion not only destroyed the home at 5206 SW 20th St. but also caused damage to approximately 40 other nearby homes, as reported by city records.
Neighbors who were impacted by the explosion, such as Geneva Allen, Tangela and Tommie Jordan, Timothee Sonel, Michelet Joseph, Anette Brown, and Devonaire Brown, joined in the legal action to seek justice. The lawsuits, filed in Broward County, shed light on the negligence that led to the tragic incident.
An investigation by the state determined that the explosion was accidental, likely caused by a propane leak that had infiltrated the home from a compromised gas line. The presence of an active construction site at the property further raised concerns about safety protocols being followed.
Attorney Cam Justice, representing the affected families, emphasized the failure of AmeriGas to properly maintain the propane tank, which had been leased to the previous homeowner before being purchased by Ledix and Mertus. The lack of necessary inspections and maintenance procedures on the tank contributed to the catastrophic explosion.
The lawsuits detail the extensive damages incurred by the families, with some homes being deemed total losses. Despite the physical losses, the emotional toll on the families has been significant, with many experiencing ongoing trauma from the sudden and violent event. Legal proceedings are underway to hold all accountable parties responsible for their roles in the incident.