Women blame Jeff Mining for family members’ deaths

CHARLESTON -- Two women are suing Jeff Mining, Inc., after they claim it is responsible for their family members’ deaths.

Roger Fleshman and John Doe Corporation were also named as defendants in the suit.

On Oct. 1, 2010, Fleshman was operating a commercial tractor trailer on U.S. 60 in Glasgow when he collided head-on with a Ford F-150 pick-up truck in which Dorothy Runnion, Joseph Runnion and Franklin Holdren were passengers, according to a complaint filed Sept. 17 in Kanawha Circuit Court.

Dorothy Runnion and Anna Nichols claim the accident caused Joseph Runnion and Holdren’s deaths and Dorothy Runnion’s injuries.

Fleshman negligently and carelessly and in an imprudent manner, operated the commercial tractor trailer, according to the suit.

The plaintiffs claim the defendants’ negligence caused them to be deprived of the care, comfort and society of their family members, as well as the companionship, guidance and assistance of their family members.

The defendants’ actions caused the wrongful deaths of Joseph Runnion and Holdren and they are liable for their wrongful deaths pursuant to West Virginia code, according to the suit.

The plaintiffs are seeking compensatory and punitive damages with pre- and post-judgment interest. They are being represented by Roger A. Decanio, William C. Forbes and W. Jesse Forbes.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Paul Zakaib Jr.

Kanawha Circuit Court case number: 12-C-1888