News Alert

A New York County jury awarded $117 million to William and Victoria Durbec in an asbestos exposure case involving the construction of the World Trade Center. The verdict, issued on May 22, 2025, is one of the largest asbestos-related awards for a single plaintiff in New York history.

Mr. Durbec developed mesothelioma after alleged occupational exposure to asbestos-containing materials during his work on the World Trade Center. The exposure reportedly stemmed from spray-on fireproofing applied to structural components such as steel columns, floor joists, and decking.

At trial, the only remaining defendant was Mario & DiBono Plastering Co. Inc., which allegedly applied the insulation under contract with the Port Authority. The jury found Mario & DiBono 80% liable, with 10% each assigned to the Port Authority and Tishman Realty & Construction Co.

Damages included:

• $40 million for past pain and suffering
• $38 million for future pain and suffering
• $20 million for past loss of consortium
• $19 million for future loss of consortium

Justice Mary V. Rosado adopted a post-trial briefing schedule set to conclude in September 2025.

You can read the complete Law.com article reporting on the verdict here.