Utility, Lawrence Family Settle Gas Disaster Lawsuit

ANDOVER, MA — Columbia Gas of Massachusetts said Tuesday it had settled one of the more than 15 lawsuits that have been filed against the company in the wake of the Sept. 13 gas explosions in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover. Terms of the settlement with the Figueroa family of Lawrence were not disclosed, although Columbia did say part of the agreement calls for the utility to provide a motorized wheelchair, a mobility van, and modifications to the family’s residence for a member of the family who will have permanent, limited mobility.

"We know that what happened on September 13 was absolutely tragic, and that many residents will live with the consequences for the rest of their lives. Our hearts go out to the Figueroa family and the entire community," said Joe Hamrock, CEO and President of NiSource, Columbia Gas's parent company. "We are pleased to have reached an amicable resolution of this matter."

When the explosions ripped through the three communities, it was the Figueroa's house that crumbled onto a car where the disaster's lone fatality, 18-year-old Leonel Rondon, was sitting. Rondon, a family friend, was celebrating having just gotten his driver's license with Sergio Figueroa and two other friends.

As the friends desperately tried to pull Rondon from the car, Sergio Figueroa's mother ran from the house, screaming that his sister was still trapped inside.

"The company recognizes the devastating impact of what happened, and they knew they needed to help try to make things better for the family and the Merrimack Valley Community. With this settlement, they have done just that," said Socrates De La Cruz, one of the attorneys who represented the family. "They have been true to their word, worked closely with us throughout, and have demonstrated they really do care about the well-being of the Figueroa family."

Essex County Superior Court Judge James Lang has urged the victims and Columbia Gas to reach settlements like the one announced Tuesday. While many cases, including a class action lawsuit, were consolidated by Lang, some -- including the Figueroa family's complaint -- were allowed to proceed individually.

"Things will never be the same for the Figueroa family, but today is an important step forward on a long road towards healing," De La Cruz said. "The Figueroas continue to rely on their faith in God for strength and would like to thank everyone who has supported them throughout this very difficult time."

Dave Copeland can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).