Calif. Defense Verdict In 1st Mold Wrongful Death Trial

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. - Jurors in California returned a defense verdict on Feb. 11 in what is believed to be the first mold-related wrongful death case to go to trial in the United States. Bette Dayton, et al. v. Highlands Mobile Home Estates, No. SCVSS655567 (Calif. Super. Ct., San Bernardino Cty.).

A San Bernardino Superior Court jury deliberated three hours before returning a unanimous verdict on a wrongful death claim filed after the death of 60-year-old Bette Dayton. A pathologist retained by her family said an overwhelming fungal infection in Mrs. Dayton's lungs contributed to her death.

Prior …