Defense Verdict in Latest Mississippi Silica Trial

GREENVILLE, Miss. — A jury in Washington County, Miss., deliberated for approximately 20 minutes before reaching a verdict in favor of Mine Safety Appliances in the latest silica lawsuit to go to trial, according to a source connected to the case.

The 12-member jury delivered a verdict Nov. 20 in a trial that began Nov. 12 against MSA and American Optical Corp., which was dismissed with prejudice mid-trial.

A third defendant, Mississippi Valley Silica Co. Inc., reportedly settled before trial.

Plaintiff Billy George Wachter filed suit against 21 silica suppliers or equipment manufacturers in March 2012, alleging that he suffers …