Aztec Catalyst Co. Thousands of residents affected by explosions that destroyed two buildings and spread a cloud of hydrochloric acid over south Elyria in 1993 can begin filing claims for part of the settlement. The amounts could be much smaller. About 6,000 people were evacuated from their homes after the two explosions. Many complained of eye and respiratory irritation. The plant made chemicals used in the manufacture of plastics.
People have two years to file claims.
The number of people filing will affect the size of the awards. Attorney Robert D. Gary, who represented the class, said he may open an office in Elyria to help people fill out forms, and he hopes to locate others who may not have heard about the settlement. Aztec will deposit the money in an account within 20 days. According to the agreement, the company denies that residents suffered any damage. The company settled with several residents outside of this case, some weeks after the explosions happened.