GASSED: The True Story of a Toxic Train Derailment

Part 6 Chapter 17 "A-Rail" / Chapter 18 "Stress"

We consider how A-rail might have contributed to the failed rail that caused the Alberton chemical spill, and how various stresses, in combination with rail wear, played a role.
Pictured: diagram of making steel rail

Part 6 Chapter 19 "Theories" / Chapter 20 "Preemption" / Chapter 21 "Tort and Punishment"

We consider competing theories for why the Alberton derailment and chemical spill occurred, and how federal preemption threatens to derail plaintiffs’ argument. We also examine the burden of proving liability or negligence against MRL for the derailment and any injuries, and of seeking punitive damages.

Part 6 Chapter 22 "Austin v. MRL"

The only case to try MRL for liability over the Alberton derailment and chemical spill, pits plaintiff Sam Austin vs MRL and BN. At stake is also MRL’s negligence, and potential punitive damages. The outcome will likely affect all remaining lawsuits.

Part 6 Chapter 23 "Endgame" / Chapter 24 "Verdict"

Prior to his closing argument, plaintiff attorney Ted Lyon ruminates on the Alberton chlorine spill litigation. When the verdict is announced, one side celebrates while the other is angry, and the jury foreman feels duped by the process.

Part 6 Chapter 25 "Insiders"

Insiders at Montana Rail Link reflect on the railroad’s operations after they have been found not negligent for the Alberton derailment and chlorine spill.

Part 6 Chapter 26 "Rough Spot"

We consider all of the evidence and information surrounding the Alberton derailment, and the obstruction of the EPA and other government agencies and responders in the immediate days following the derailment, to offer a reasoned explanation for the Montana Rail Link derailment and the obstruction.
Pictured: Le Schutter giving tearful testimony about his son, MRL train engineer Billy Schutter, at the National EPA Ombudsman hearing on the Alberton case in Missoula in 2000.

Part 6 Chapter 27 "Settling" / Chapter 28 "Testimony"

Under pressure from the failure to find Montana Rail Link negligent in court, most of the remaining Alberton chlorine spill cases settle, including Lucinda Hodges’ family. Looking back over the past five long years, Hodges shares the chronic health impacts of her family’s exposure.

Part 6 Chapter 29 "End of the Line" / End Notes

We conclude the two-book series with a reflection and look forward from Lucinda Hodges, followed by some end notes. To see the books GASSED: The True Story of a Toxic Train Derailment, along with photos, illustrations and video links, visit Amazon.com. Thanks for listening.
Pictured: The Lothrop Pine near Alberton, Montana (RL Scholl)