Bethlehem Steel fire test scheduled for October 2

LACKAWANNA, NY — Images of the former Bethlehem Steel plant ablaze are etched in the minds of many in western New York State.

Now, almost eight years after the fire, a trial is set to begin in Erie County Superior Court.

Dina and Michael Bardsley filed a lawsuit back in November 2019. They lived near the fire in Lackawanna and accused the building owner and the company that used the plant at the time of negligence, among other things.

In their complaint, they also cite numerous health effects.

They are suing Great Lakes Industrial Development, the building's owner, and Industrial Material Recycling, the company that occupied part of the old steel mill at the time of the fire.

According to court documents, the two companies are linked to a parent organization through a network of LLCs.

The case experienced significant delays, and nearly went to trial in June 2023. However, the presiding judge was not appointed to a new term by Governor Hochul, and after concerns raised by Jeanne Vinal, the Bardsleys' attorney, the case was adjourned and reassigned.

Earlier this week, attorneys for Great Lakes Industrial Development and Industrial Material Recycling asked the court to “prevent plaintiffs from presenting evidence of alleged destruction related to items collected and listed in the Buffalo Fire Department's inventory report.”

In June, the plaintiff's attorney filed a motion asking the judge to allow testimony and evidence from former Bethlehem Steel employees that indicated fire safety measures had been taken at the site. Judge Edward Pace denied that motion on June 28.

2 On Your Side reached out to attorneys for the plaintiffs and the defense, but neither side was available for an interview.

A jury trial is scheduled to begin on October 2.