South Carolina Residents’ Lawsuit Claims Water Made Them Sick

A group of Anderson, S.C., residents have filed a multimillion-dollar lawsuit against the regional water system, claiming they became seriously ill because of safety lapses.

The Anderson Independent-Mail reports that the lawsuit seeks a minimum of $7 million from the Anderson Joint Regional Water System and the Broadway water district. The district is part of the larger regional system.

Tom Dunaway, an attorney and Anderson Town Council member representing the residents, says water tests showed the presence of E coli and other bacteria. He says the seven residents’ health problems include infections, intestinal problems and the amputation of one man’s leg.

Scott Willett, executive director of the regional water system, says a lawyer will review the complaint. But he’s confident the water provided to customers is safe.