Have You Been Affected by Atlas Iron & Metal Recycling in Watts?

If you or your children attend or have attended Jordan High School in Watts, or if you live within 2 miles of Atlas Iron & Metal Company, you may be entitled to compensation. The metal recycling plant has been accused of exposing students and residents to hazardous conditions, including toxic explosions, flying metal debris, and dangerous levels of lead and zinc. Contact the lawyers at Singleton Schreiber today to file a claim. Fill out the form on the next tab to have one of our legal experts assess your claim.

Client-Centered Justice

How We Can Help

At Singleton Schreiber, we understand the devastating impact of environmental hazards on communities. The constant explosions, toxic air, and health concerns have left many feeling helpless and unheard. We are here to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and help you move forward with your lives.

Our attorneys offer comprehensive assistance:

• Pursuing legal action against Atlas Iron & Metal Co. and its owners
• Ensuring you receive maximum compensation for damages
• Pay no fees unless we win

Background

Case details

Atlas Iron & Metal Company, Inc. has been operating next to Jordan High School in Watts for over 70 years, exposing generations of students and residents to hazardous conditions. Recent investigations have revealed alarming environmental and health concerns:

Toxic Contamination:

• Soil samples from Jordan High School Watts show lead levels 75 times higher than EPA safety standards.
• Excessive concentrations of zinc and other metals have also been detected.

Explosions and Safety Hazards:

• Multiple explosions have occurred, including incidents in 2002 and most recently in August 2024.
• Metal shards and debris have been launched onto school grounds, endangering students and staff.
• Students report breathing "brown, dirty air" and difficulty focusing due to constant noise.

Legal Actions:

• The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) filed a federal lawsuit in 2020 seeking to stop the company from emitting hazardous materials onto campus.
• In June 2023, the Los Angeles County District Attorney filed 24 criminal charges against Atlas Metal and its owners related to hazardous waste disposal and failure to minimize explosion risks.
• An additional charge was added following an explosion on the first day of school in August 2024.

Health Concerns:

• Exposure to high levels of lead can damage children's nervous systems, causing hearing loss, seizures, learning disabilities, and decreased intelligence.
• Students and residents have reported various health issues, including respiratory problems and headaches.

Community Impact:

• The recycling plant's operations have disrupted classes and daily life for decades.
• Despite numerous complaints and legal actions, Atlas has continued to operate, frustrating community members and officials.

This case highlights the ongoing struggle for environmental justice in the Watts community and the urgent need to address the health and safety risks posed by the Atlas Metal Recycling Plant. By joining this lawsuit, you can help hold Atlas accountable and push for the changes necessary to protect the health and well-being of students, residents, and future generations.

Get the Justice You Deserve

If you or a loved one meet the following criteria, you may be entitled to compensation:

• Have children who currently attend Jordan High School
• You or your children previously attended Jordan High School
• Live within 2 miles of Atlas Iron & Metal Company at 10019 S Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90002

Local Lawyers, National Resources

With a dedicated team of approximately 300 staff members and over 75 attorneys, Singleton Schreiber serves individuals and families in more than 15 states. Our attorneys have decades of litigation experience and have recovered over $2.5 billion in settlements and verdicts for our clients in the last ten years alone.

Singleton Schreiber fights for regular people and is here to listen, support, and put your needs first. What justice means to you is what matters most. Our client-focused attorneys will make your justice our top priority.

Take Action Today

The Atlas Metal Recycling Plant has caused enough harm to the Watts community. Call our team or fill out the form to book your FREE consultation today.

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