OR Sup Crt = Workplace Murder Not Work Comp

The Oregon Supreme Court has ruled that where a man killed his former girlfriend at work, her family's wrongful death claim isn't barred by the exclusivity provisions of the state workers' comp statute. In Panpat vs. Owens-Brockway (CC 9708-06234; CA A104501; SC S48419, 07/11/02), Chris Blake killed his former girlfriend at their place of employment, Owens-Brockway Glass, Inc. (Owens). Plaintiff Panpat, as the personal representative of decedent's estate, brought a wrongful death action against defendant Owens. Owens moved for summary judgment arguing that Owens lacked notice that Blake was d...