Ky. woman sues CSX for husband's lung cancer, death

CHARLESTON -- A Kentucky woman is suing CSX Transportation after her late husband developed lung cancer.

Jesse Elwood Osborne was employed by CSX Transportation from 1947 until 1987 as a laborer, equipment operator and engineer, according to a complaint filed June 8 in Kanawha Circuit Court.

Althea F. Osborne claims during Mr. Osborne's employment he was exposed to toxic substances, including asbestos, chemicals and diesel exhaust.

On July 12, 2007, Mr. Osborne was diagnosed with lung cancer and later died, according to the suit.

Mrs. Osborne claims the defendants failed to provide Mr. Osborne with a reasonably safe work place; failed to furnish him with safe and suitable tools and equipment; failed to warn him of the true nature and hazardous effects of the asbestos, chemicals and diesel fumes; and are responsible for his wrongful death.

Mrs. Osborne is seeking judgment in an amount to be determined by a jury. She is being represented by James A. McKowen and John E. Guerry III.

The case has been assigned to a visiting judge.

Kanawha Circuit Court case number: 10-C-1024