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Friday, March 29, 2024

Illinois AG files pollution lawsuit against auto parts dealer

Madigan

CHICAGO (Legal Newsline) - Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan announced a lawsuit Wednesday against a Cahokia auto parts dealer for allegations of air and water pollution violations following a massive fire in April.

The lawsuit, which was filed jointly by Madigan's office and St. Clair County State's Attorney Brendan Kelly, alleged that workers at Marty's Used Car and Truck Parts accidentally ignited a fire on April 8 that caused violations of air and water pollution regulations. The employees were using a cutting torch to dismantle vehicles when the torch ignited a pile of shredded tire wire. The fire consumed two nearby sheds that contained approximately 200 used tires.

The Cahokia Fire Department, six other area departments and the St. Clair County Hazmat team responded to the incident.

"This incident was the result of careless site maintenance," Madigan said. "This legal action seeks to hold the company accountable for the significant damage to the surrounding area as a result of the fire."

The lawsuit alleges that Marty's engaged in air pollution, water pollution and open dumping. Marty's also allegedly failed to register as a used tire storage facility, improperly managed used/waste tires and operated a solid waste transfer station without a permit from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

The lawsuit seeks the statutory maximum civil penalty of $50,000 for each count and an additional $10,000 per day for each day the violations continue.

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