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Friday, March 29, 2024

Couple says oil, gas facility causing problems

Oilgas

MOUNDSVILLE – A Wetzel County couple is suing over claims a nearby oil and gas facility has caused odors, fumes, dirt, noise pollution, drainage and light to become a problem on their property.

Charles E. and Debra K. Bertrand filed a lawsuit Sept. 30 in Marshall Circuit Court against Gastar Exploration Inc., citing negligence.

According to the complaint, the Bertrands own property in Franklin District of Marshall County, adjacent to land used by the defendant for oil and gas operations, drilling and production. The Bertrands say Gastar's operations has negligently caused unbearable odors and fumes, pollution, dust, dirt and debris to be present on the Bertrand property, as well as litter and garbage, making it difficult to use their property and requiring them to keep the windows closed at their home.

They also allege Gastar's operations have caused contaminated water and drainage to flow onto their property, causing their hay fields to erode, in addition to noise pollution and bright lights shining on their home day and night. According to the lawsuit, the Bertrands' calls to Gastar to complain have gone unanswered. Complaint letters have been answered by Gastar employees, yet none of the problems have subsided, the suit says.

The Bertrands seek compensatory and general damages, interest and attorney fees.

They are represented by attorneys James G. Bordas Jr. and Jeremy M. McGraw of Bordas & Bordas in Wheeling. The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Mark A. Karl.

Marshall Circuit Court case number: 14-C-158K

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