A class-action case due to the over-pressurized gas lines in the Merrimack Valley (Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover) that caused a series of explosions and fires. The explosions killed one person, injured many others and caused millions in property damage and disruptions. Total settlement was $143,000,000.
In July 2019, Columbia Gas (parent company NiSource) agreed to a $143 million class-action settlement with residents and businesses of Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover affected by the September 13, 2018, explosions caused by over‑pressurized gas lines. The settlement, approved by a judge in March 2020, provided claims to multiple impacted plaintiffs. Separately, Columbia Gas pleaded guilty to violating the Pipeline Safety Act, paid a $53 million criminal fine, and exited Massachusetts by selling its operations to Eversource.
