Patrick Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawsuit [2024 Update]

The Patrick AFB Water Contamination Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

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Patrick Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawsuit Overview

Patrick Air Force Base, now known as Patrick Space Force Base, has held many different names and served a critical role in air and space initiatives. Patrick AFB was originally called Banana River Naval Air Station, a U.S. Navy seaplane base to support World War II. It was inactivated in 1947, transferred to the Air Force in 1948, and renamed the Long Range Proving Ground Air Force Base in 1950. Later that year, the name changed again to Patrick Air Force Base which held until December 2020 when it was renamed Patrick Space Force Base. Throughout its lifetime, the base has supported naval training, missile programs, aerospace defense, and air command initiatives. It’s notably home to the 45th Space Wing, which manages rocket launches at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, located slightly north. 

Like many other air force bases, Patrick AFB used firefighting foam at fire training areas, plane hangars, and other areas where equipment, petroleum, and other materials or substances could catch fire. When firefighting foam was used, spilled, or disposed of, it could seep into the ground and introduce a group of chemicals called PFAS to soil, groundwater, and other waterways. Unfortunately, PFAS then also entered drinking water, which was consumed by veterans, their family members, and others who lived and worked on and near the military base. PFAS is linked to testicular cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, and a series of other life-threatening conditions. Victims are now filing PFAS lawsuits to recover compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and other damages.

Patrick Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawsuit Updates

May 2024 – PFAS Lawsuits Filed After Patrick AFB Water Contamination

In addition to thousands of other military veterans across the country, those who served at Patrick Air Force Base are now eligible to file PFAS claims. Victims may be able to recover compensation from chemical manufacturers who made toxic firefighting foam. If you were exposed to contaminated water at Patrick AFB and have since developed a serious illness, contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn about your legal options. 

May 2020 – Father Demands Action After Daughter Dies From Illness Linked to PFAS Contamination

Jim Holmes lost his daughter to a rare, aggressive type of brain cancer in March 2019 just days after she turned 17. Holmes lived at Patrick AFB and the Satellite Beach area for 16 years, unaware of the PFAS water contamination. His daughter’s physician noted that PFAS contamination from the base could have caused her cancer with no other explanation. Holmes is seeking action from the government to provide all homes with the necessary filters to remove PFAS from their drinking water.

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History of Toxic Exposure at Patrick Air Force Base

The University of Florida conducted a study focused on PFAS contamination in Brevard County. Key takeaways include: PFAS was found in all surface water samples taken from the Indian River Lagoon and along the Atlantic Coast in Brevard County, the highest PFAS concentrations were from Banana River, and PFAS levels near the air force base exceeded 4,000,000 ppt. 

May 2021 – EWG Highlights Lack of Cleanup Progress at Patrick AFB

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) published a news article in May 2021 about how many military sites with the highest levels of contamination have made “little to no progress” with PFAS cleanup. One of the sites named was Patrick Air Force Base. At the time of publication, the cleanup status was listed as “Remedial investigation pending funding.” 

September 2018 – PFAS Contamination Found at Cocoa Beach

In September 2018, news outlets reported how PFAS was found in groundwater and sewage at Cocoa Beach. The listed source is Patrick Air Force Base and its historical use of firefighting foams. Sample results were as high as 294 ppt which was at the Patrick Air Force Base sewage lift station. Representative Thad Altman also shared his concerns regarding a concentrated number of cancer diagnoses in Brevard County, potentially associated with the PFAS contamination. 

August 2018 – Satellite Beach and Cocoa Beach Golf Course Find PFAS Contamination

Satellite Beach conducted PFAS groundwater testing in July 2018 and shared the results of PFAS contamination a month later. One day after the announcement, Cocoa Beach conducted testing with the highest PFAS concentrations found at Cocoa Beach’s city golf course. The most concerning PFAS levels were where Patrick AFB sewage flows into the Cocoa Beach sewer system. After Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach, and Brevard County representatives talked with officials from the base, they determined, “The most likely suspect are the foams that were used for decades at the base in training drills and putting out fires.”

Patrick Air Force Base Water Contamination Map

The Patrick Air Force Base water contamination map shows areas where PFAS-containing firefighting foam was used and likely caused extensive contamination at the base and nearby areas. These sites include air hangars, fire stations, fire training areas, and disposal sites. You can also see how Cocoa Beach and Satellite Beach are in close proximity to the base, making them susceptible to spreading contamination. 

Contaminants Found in Patrick Air Force Base Drinking Water

The main contaminants found at Patrick Air Force Base are different types of PFAS. There are around 15,000 different types of PFAS, though the main types tested for in drinking water are PFOA and PFOS. This base has also had exceedances of total trihalomethanes in its drinking water. 

Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of manmade chemicals that pose a range of serious health risks, including several types of cancer. High levels and long durations of PFAS exposure increase these risks because these “forever chemicals” don’t break down in the body or the environment and build up over time. Exposure to PFAS is linked to: 

• Birth defects
• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Changes in liver enzymes 
• Decreased vaccine effectiveness
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Lowered immune response 
• Multiple-myeloma
• Kidney cancer 
• Pancreatic cancer 
• Prostate cancer 
• Reproductive issues
• Testicular cancer 
• Thyroid cancer 
• Thyroid disease 
• Ulcerative colitis

If you know you’ve been exposed to contaminated water, notify your healthcare professional so they can screen for these conditions. Furthermore, seek medical attention promptly if you develop related symptoms. 

Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM)

Total trihalomethanes (TTHM) enter drinking water as byproducts of disinfectants like chlorine. While TTHM are typical in drinking water, they can be harmful in excessive amounts. Patrick AFB water quality reports have shown TTHM levels that exceed the maximum contaminant levels (MCLs), putting individuals at risk of: 

• Birth defects
• Bladder cancer
• Colon cancer
• Kidney toxicity 
• Liver toxicity 
• Neurological problems
• Reproductive issues

Current Water Quality at Patrick Air Force Base

Patrick Air Force Base’s most recent water quality report from 2022 had only one noted violation, TTHM. However, reports show that PFAS contamination has affected the military base and nearby cities for at least several years. Those who have already been exposed to PFAS continue to be at risk of developing serious illnesses, especially if they have additional exposure.

Water Treatment Efforts at Patrick Air Force Base

Patrick Air Force Base purchases water from the City of Cocoa. The water is disinfected with chlorine and monitored monthly. No cleanup efforts have begun in terms of PFAS cleanup of contaminated water at the base and surrounding areas. 

Health Risks Linked to Drinking Water at Patrick Air Force Base

King Law is evaluating Patrick Air Force Base water contamination claims that involve the following diagnoses: 

• Kidney cancer 
• Liver cancer 
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma 
• Prostate cancer 
• Testicular cancer 
• Thyroid cancer 
• Thyroid disease 
• Ulcerative Colitis 

Other illnesses related to Patrick Air Force Base toxins include: 

• Anemia 
• Birth defects 
• Colon cancer
• Liver damage 
• Neurological problems 
• Reproductive issues 
• Skin conditions 
• Stomach problems

Our law firm is currently evaluating cases where individuals have been diagnosed with:

• Kidney Cancer
• Liver cancer
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Prostate Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Thyroid Cancer
• Thyroid Disease
• Ulcerative Colitis

Eligibility Criteria for Patrick AFB Water Contamination Lawsuit

Eligibility for a Patrick AFB water contamination lawsuit is contingent on:

1. At least six months of toxic exposure 
2. A diagnosis related to that exposure 

Our law firm is currently evaluating cases where individuals have been diagnosed with:

• Kidney Cancer
• Liver cancer
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Prostate Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Thyroid Cancer
• Thyroid Disease
• Ulcerative Colitis

During your initial consultation with an attorney, you can confirm your eligibility. Your attorney will also be able to provide you with a better understanding of how much compensation you could be entitled to based on the strength of your case.

Patrick AFB Water Contamination Settlement and Payout Amounts

Payout amounts will vary based on the strength of each water contamination lawsuit. We anticipate Patrick Air Force Base settlements to range from $30,000 to $500,000 with an average settlement amount of $250,000. 

If your case lacks substantiation, you may see a settlement closer to $30,000-$75,000. If you have strong evidence and factors like a severe illness or diagnosis at a young age, you could see a settlement closer to $1,000,000.

How to File a Patrick AFB Water Contamination Lawsuit

Review the following steps to file a Patrick Air Force Base water contamination lawsuit: 

1. Schedule an initial consultation with an attorney who has experience handling toxic torts and environmental law to discuss your eligibility. 
2. Collect evidence to support your case, such as proof of your exposure and medical records confirming your related diagnosis. 
3. Be available to your attorney to provide additional evidence or answer any questions as they build your case and file it on your behalf. 
4. Follow your attorney’s guidance to pursue a settlement or go to trial. Keep in mind that settlements may resolve quicker and increase your chances at compensation, while verdicts can take longer and pay out higher but risk you receiving no compensation. 
5. If the case resolves in your favor, you can earn compensation to use for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Evidence to Support Your Patrick Air Force Base Claim

Evidence is crucial to creating a successful water contamination claim. It can include:

• Medical records showing your diagnosis and other details like prognosis, symptoms, limitations, and suggested treatment 
• Copies of military orders, directives, and discharge paperwork proving your time at Patrick Air Force Base 
• Proof that you were exposed to PFAS-contaminated water at the base and for how long, such as through water quality reports 
• Expert testimonies, environmental studies, and other reliable resources confirming the risks of PFAS and connection to your diagnosis

Statute of Limitations for Patrick AFB Water Contamination Cases

You must file a water contamination claim within a certain amount of time after your diagnosis. This is referred to as the statute of limitations. These deadlines vary by state and the circumstances of your case can impact the timeline to file a lawsuit.

Patrick Air Force Base Water Contamination Lawyers

Not all attorneys have experience handling environmental exposure cases. At King Law, we know what it takes to build a strong PFAS claim and have experience representing those involved with military base contamination. Our expertise and resources enable us to navigate these types of cases with compassion and confidence to provide you with an unmatched level of advocacy and pursuit of justice. If you’re interested in learning more about your legal options, reach out to us today. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Review the following answers to frequently asked questions regarding water contamination at Patrick Air Force Base.