> At a Glance
> – Two additional Bucks County nursing-home residents file suit over December explosion
> – Joseph Juhas Sr. and Maryann Schnepp claim facility ignored gas-leak threat
> – Pair suffered traumatic brain injuries, fractures; suit names PECO, Exelon, Saber
> – Why it matters: The new suit raises total court actions to six and could signal broader accountability as death toll climbs to three.
A second wave of litigation has hit operators of the Bristol Health & Rehab Center after a December blast leveled much of the Bucks County facility, injuring 20 and killing two.
New Plaintiffs Allege Reckless Disregard
Joseph Juhas Sr. and Maryann Schnepp-residents at the time of the Dec. 23 explosion-filed suit accusing the home of continuing daily operations despite knowing about an active gas leak.
The complaint alleges:
- Carelessness and recklessness by the nursing home
- Failure to evacuate or mitigate gas danger
- Serious injuries including traumatic brain injuries and bone fractures
Named defendants are PECO Energy, parent Exelon Corp., and facility owner Saber Healthcare Holdings LLC of Ohio.
Rising Toll Triggers Legal Momentum
The filing follows a separate suit one day earlier by four other victims and comes as Bucks County officials confirmed a third fatality on Jan. 5.
Initial blast sequences:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec. 23 | Explosion kills resident, worker; injures 20 |
| Dec. 23 | PECO crew on-site for reported gas leak |
| Jan. 5 | Third person dies from injuries |
About 100 residents were relocated to nearby nursing homes after the explosion, and investigators have not yet released an official cause.
Key Takeaways
- Total lawsuits now stand at six with more expected
- Plaintiffs seek damages for medical costs, pain and suffering
- State and federal safety inquiries remain open
With legal pressure mounting, the nursing home and its energy suppliers face intensifying scrutiny over alleged safety lapses tied to the deadly blast.
