Runnels et al v. Norcold, Inc. et al

Filing 161

MEMORANDUM OPINION. Signed by District Judge Liam O'Grady on 3/24/2017. (awac, )

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF VIRGINIA
Alexandria Division

MICHAEL RUNNELS et a!.,
Plaintiffs,

Civil No. I:16-cv-713

Hon. Liam O'Grady
NORCOLD, INC., etal.
Defendants.

MEMORANDtlM nPTMiOM

This case anses out ofafire that began in the refrigerator ofMichael and Donna

Runnels's (the "Runnelses") Winnebago. The fire then spread to their nearby house and garage,
and as aresult, the Runnelses lost most oftheir possessions. Mr. Runnels was injured while
trying to save his possessions from the fire. Brian Colbert, asheriffs deputy and volunteer

fireman who arrived at die scene, was also injured. Mr. Colbert and the Runnels ("Plaintiffs")
brought suit against the refrigerator manufacturer, Norcold, Inc. and its corporate affiliates,
Thetford Corporation and The Dyson-Kissner Moran Corporation (collectively "Defendants")
(without Norcold, the "Corporate Defendants"). On February 23, 2017, however, the parties
notified the Court that they had settled all ofthe Runnelses' claims. This leaves only Mr.
Colbert's claims.'

Prior to the settlement. Defendants moved for summary judgment on the application of
the Fireman's Rule to Mr. Colbert's claims. (Dkt. No. 119). The Corporate Defendants have