Amazon Sued for Negligence After Toxic Chemical Purchases Linked to Suicides
The Washington Supreme Court has allowed families to pursue negligence claims against Amazon following the deaths of four young people who ingested sodium nitrite purchased online. This ruling overturned a previous decision by a lower court, which had dismissed the lawsuits, dismissing the argument that the victims’ suicides barred liability under Washington’s product liability law.
Key Details of the Case
The families involved in the lawsuits represent individuals aged 17, 18, and 27, who died between 2020 and 2021 as a result of ingesting sodium nitrite. This chemical is used in both laboratories and food preservation, but it is highly toxic. Ingesting just 1-2 grams can be fatal.
- Victims: Four young individuals, ages ranging from 17 to 27.
- Substance: Sodium nitrite, linked to the suicides.
- Timeline: Deaths occurred between 2020 and 2021.
Allegations Against Amazon
The plaintiffs claim that Amazon’s sales practices contributed to these tragedies. The families have raised several critical points:
- Failure to provide adequate warnings about the potential dangers of sodium nitrite.
- Lack of age verification when selling the chemical.
- Product recommendations for items related to sodium nitrite, including suicide-related materials.
A report noted that Amazon had been aware for years of sodium nitrite’s association with suicides, referencing customer complaints and communications from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding mislabeled products.
Legal Proceedings and Outcome
The Washington state high court emphasized that the question of whether suicide was a foreseeable result of Amazon’s actions is for a jury to decide. They reinstated the trial court’s decision to deny Amazon’s request to dismiss the claims, allowing the legal process to continue.
The court noted that Amazon could present defenses as the case progresses, but the duty of care under Washington law remains a focal point of the proceedings. A concurring opinion suggested that, if proven, the plaintiffs’ claims could lead to liability under various provisions of state product liability law.
Amazon’s Response
In a statement, an Amazon spokesperson expressed condolences to the affected families and reiterated the company’s commitment to customer safety. Amazon highlighted that sodium nitrite is primarily intended for food preservation and laboratory use. The company noted taking steps to restrict the sale of high-concentration sodium nitrite, stating that as of October 2022, it prohibits sales of sodium nitrite in concentrations above 10%.
As this case progresses, the implications of negligence claims in situations involving online sales and product liability continue to spark debate.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, support is available. Visit 988lifeline.org or call 988 for assistance.
