Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point (MCAS Cherry Point) is located in Havelock, North Carolina. The station has been in operation since 1942 and has been a source of environmental contamination for many years.
In 1994, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) placed MCAS Cherry Point on the National Priorities List (NPL), which is a list of the most hazardous waste sites in the United States. The EPA found that groundwater, soil, sediment, and surface water at MCAS Cherry Point were contaminated with a variety of hazardous substances, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), metals, and asbestos.
Lawsuits
In recent years, there have been several lawsuits filed against the U.S. Navy and the Department of Defense alleging that water contamination from MCAS Cherry Point has caused a variety of health problems, including cancer, neurological disorders, and birth defects.
In 2012, a group of residents filed a class action lawsuit against the U.S. Navy alleging that water contamination from MCAS Cherry Point had caused their children to develop leukemia. The lawsuit was settled out of court for $2.3 million.
In 2019, another group of residents filed a class action lawsuit against the U.S. Navy alleging that water contamination from MCAS Cherry Point had caused them to develop a variety of health problems, including cancer, neurological disorders, and birth defects. The lawsuit is still ongoing.
Impact on Residents
The water contamination from MCAS Cherry Point has had a significant impact on the residents of Havelock and surrounding areas. Many residents are concerned about the long-term health effects of the contamination. They are also concerned about the property value of their homes.
Current Status
The U.S. Navy is continuing to investigate and remediate the water contamination at MCAS Cherry Point. The Navy is also providing bottled water to residents who have been affected by the contamination.
Conclusion
The Cherry Point Water Contamination Lawsuit is a complex and ongoing case. The outcome of the lawsuit could have a significant impact on the health and well-being of the residents of Havelock and surrounding areas.
