Worker's estate sues Ameren and contractors for electrocution

Regions Bank, as the administrator of John Mueller's estate, filed a wrongful death suit against Ameren, C.D. Peters Construction and Heidtman Steel in Madison County Circuit Court July 12, seeking damages in excess of $225,000.

According to Regions, Mueller died on March 2, when he was electrocuted while attempting to drop rebar into a block cell. Wind caused the rebar to contact live power lines, according to the suit.

Mueller was constructing a concrete block building for Heidtman and C.D Peters.

Regions, represented by Tom Keefe of Swansea, allege that the defendants negligently and carelessly failed to furnish Mueller with a safe place to work, allowed him to work in windy conditions and failed to inspect the area to ensure it was free from energized power lines.

The bank claims Mueller's next of kin have suffered permanent damage because they have been permanently deprived of his life, support, companionship, and society.

In addition, Regions alleges his next of kin incurred and became liable for large sums of money in medical and funeral expenses in a substantial amount.

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