Los Angeles Jury Reaches Defense Verdict for Ford Motor, Exxon Mobil in Asbestos Case

LOS ANGELES –– A Los Angeles jury has reached a defense verdict in favor of Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:F) and Exxon Mobil Corp. (NYSE:XOM), rejecting the plaintiff’s claims that she developed mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos-containing friction products in a bystander capacity.

The California Superior Court for Los Angeles County reached the defense verdict in the asbestos case after a three-week trial before Judge Richard L. Fruin. Jurors deliberated for one-and-a-half days before reaching the verdict, sources said.

Marline Petitpas asserted the claims, contending that her bystander exposure to asbestos-containing friction products while visiting Exxon service stations …