Massachusetts to File Lawsuit against Big Dig Contractors

By Amy Teeple

Published on November 28, 2006

Attorney General Tom Reilly stated that the negligence of the contractors named in the lawsuit led to the ceiling collapse that killed Milena Del Valle, 38. Del Valle was a passenger in a car traveling through the tunnel when a section of the ceiling collapsed.

Del Valle's family previously filed a wrongful death lawsuit against nine of the companies involved in the tunnel's construction and the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority. The state's lawsuit names 15 companies involved in the construction, design, management, or oversight of the Big Dig tunnel, but only charges one firm, Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff, with gross negligence, the most serious charge listed in the lawsuit.

The civil lawsuit alleges that Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff was aware the epoxy bolts used to secure ceiling panels showed evidence of slipping or falling, but did not warn the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority of this potential danger when the tunnel was turned over in 2003. This lawsuit does not list specific monetary damages.

Atty. Gen. Reilly stated that a civil lawsuit is being filed at this time to avoid issues with the state's statue of limitations. A grand jury is reviewing evidence to determine if criminal charges will also be filed in this case.

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