BEXAR COUNTY, Texas – A North Side family is taking legal action against CPS Energy after their home was the first to explode on Preston Hollow Drive last month. This incident has raised significant concerns about safety and negligence in natural gas operations.
The Nowell family is being represented by Lyons & Simmons, LLP, a Dallas-based law firm known for handling similar cases. In fact, they previously represented an East Side family who won a substantial $109 million judgment against CPS Energy for injuries suffered in a 2021 explosion. However, CPS Energy reportedly settled for only $3 million.
Adding to the turmoil, Mayte Terrie Reeves and Jose Ochoa, who were injured in a second explosion on the same street just hours later, have also joined the legal battle by hiring the same firm. They are seeking over $1 million in damages and have requested a jury trial.
What’s in the lawsuit
The Nowell family’s lawsuit alleges that CPS Energy was negligent in managing its natural gas system. They claim the utility failed to properly hire, equip, and train workers to ensure safe operations. The attorneys for the Nowell family argue that CPS Energy was aware of the risks posed by their deteriorating gas system but chose to ignore these dangers.
According to the lawsuit, the recent explosions were preventable and linked to CPS Energy’s failure to maintain a safe gas distribution system. The firm highlighted the second explosion that occurred just a few hours after the Nowell’s incident, emphasizing the ongoing threat to the community.
As a result of the explosions, Reeves and Ochoa remain hospitalized at Brooke Army Medical Center. Their condition continues to be monitored closely.
Family background
Timothy Nowell serves as a pastor at Wayside Chapel, a church located on Northwest Loop 410. His wife, Kimberly, is a math teacher at MacArthur High School in the North East Independent School District. The couple has been involved in their community for years, with Timothy being a student pastor for over 17 years.
The church community has expressed their support for the Nowell family during this difficult time, emphasizing their integral role within the congregation. As of now, Timothy and Kimberly remain in critical condition, and their recovery will be a long journey.
