June 19, 2025

Kroger Ordered to Pay $75 Million After Chemical Explosion

News Summary

A jury has awarded over $75 million to Brian Mierendorf, a 37-year-old HVAC technician severely injured in a chemical explosion at a Kroger store in Bloomfield Township. The incident, resulting from a defective refrigerant, caused devastating injuries requiring 25 surgeries. The case raises serious concerns about Kroger’s safety protocols and maintenance practices. Mierendorf’s life has been drastically changed due to the incident, highlighting the responsibility of companies to ensure the safety of their employees and customers.

Bloomfield Township, Michigan — Kroger Co. has been ordered to pay over $75 million to Brian Mierendorf, a 37-year-old HVAC technician, and his wife, Heather Mierendorf, after a jury found the company liable for Mierendorf’s severe injuries sustained during a chemical explosion at a Kroger store in Bloomfield Township. The verdict, rendered on June 17 in Oakland County Circuit Court, is one of the largest premises liability awards in the history of Michigan.

The incident occurred on February 1, 2022, when Mierendorf was working to address a refrigerant leak in the meat department of the Kroger store. He suffered severe chemical burns and was left with devastating injuries, including the loss and amputation of most of his fingers and hands. The explosion was caused by a defective refrigerant, R-22, which had been banned by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) due to its harmful environmental effects. Mierendorf’s left hand froze to the refrigeration line during his attempts to mitigate the leak, resulting in substantial injuries when he finally freed himself.

Following the explosion, Mierendorf underwent a staggering 25 surgeries in the fight to regain functionality and manage his injuries. He now faces ongoing challenges in daily life and potential long-term limitations due to the traumatic nature of his injuries. His attorney highlighted that the damages awarded were calculated to include both economic and non-economic losses, taking into account the future impacts on Mierendorf’s life.

Kroger’s defense at the trial attempted to shift some of the blame onto Mierendorf, arguing that his actions contributed to the incident. However, the jury described Mierendorf’s response as heroic. Evidence presented during the trial revealed that Kroger had failed to maintain safety standards and adequate documentation concerning the maintenance, repair, and inspection records of the refrigeration system in question. This lack of proper oversight left the store vulnerable to such dangerous incidents.

Before this tragic event, Mierendorf worked as a journeyman pipefitter and HVAC technician. His dedication to his job was evident as he tried to protect customers from potential harm during the refrigerant leak. Unfortunately, his commitment to safety resulted in life-changing injuries.

The incident raised serious concerns about Kroger’s safety protocols. An attorney for Mierendorf pointed out that the situation could have been avoided if proper maintenance had been conducted. The company reportedly did not release a complete incident report until more than two years after the explosion, indicating potential negligence in their operational practices.

In conclusion, the jury’s decision underscores the serious implications companies face concerning workplace safety and the responsibility they have to protect their employees and customers. The substantial award in this case not only compensates Mierendorf and his family for their immediate losses but also reflects the court’s recognition of the long-term effects of Mierendorf’s injuries, ensuring he receives the support needed as he navigates this new chapter of his life.

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Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER

NOVI STAFF WRITER The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.

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