PITTSBURGH — A couple allege the husband suffered severe burns when a vape pen battery caught fire in his pants pocket.
Thomas Terry, Jr., and Christine Terry filed a complaint in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County against Cool Vapes LLC and Hohm Tech Inc., alleging negligence, breach of warranty and other claims.
Thomas Terry purchased batteries manufactured by Hohm Tech for his vape pen at Cool Vapes on Oct. 13, 2019, according to his complaint. He alleges that he had the two batteries in his right pants pocket when they suddenly sparked and caught fire and caused him to suffer damage to his thigh including second-degree and third-degree burns. Terry further alleges he required a significant skin graft, suffered scarring, loss of income and other damages as a result of the battery fire.
He claims the defendants' negligence for inadequate design and manufacturing of the battery and failure to test or access the hazards or risks associated with the battery. Terry also claims the defendants' failed to warn of the risk or give instructions on safe use of the battery.
The plaintiffs seek monetary and all other just relief. They are represented by Cindy Stine of Stine & Associates PC in Greensburg.