The discovery of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in fish from the Haw River in Pittsboro in Chatham County is just the latest in a series of alarming revelations about the extent of the PFAS crisis affecting North Carolina communities. PFAS, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are linked to serious health risks, including cancer, thyroid disorders, immune system damage, and developmental issues in children. These synthetic chemicals are persistent in the environment and the human body and continue to contaminate water sources across the state, posing a significant public health threat.
Latest News: PFAS Contamination Detected in Haw River Fish
A recent report from ABC11 highlights new concerns regarding the presence of PFAS in fish caught in the Haw River, a key waterway that feeds into Jordan Lake, which serves as a crucial drinking water source for hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians. According to the report, local environmental advocacy groups and concerned citizens have raised the alarm about high levels of PFAS found in the river's ecosystem, which are now threatening public health and safety in the surrounding communities.
This latest finding is particularly troubling as it underscores the persistence of PFAS contamination in North Carolina's waterways. The accumulation of PFAS in fish not only impacts aquatic life but also has serious implications for those who consume fish from the river — and those who enjoy the river's abundance of recreational opportunities or drink water sourced from Jordan Lake. These chemicals are known to bioaccumulate, meaning their concentration increases over time in living organisms. As a result, regular consumption of contaminated fish can lead to higher levels of PFAS in the human body, heightening the risk of severe health conditions.
The news from the Haw River follows a pattern of recent revelations about widespread PFAS contamination throughout the state. From polluted drinking water supplies to the presence of these toxic substances in rivers and lakes, North Carolina communities — and countless others across the nation — are facing an ongoing public health crisis. The persistence of PFAS in the environment means that these chemicals can linger for decades, continuously threatening the health of residents and the ecological balance of affected areas.
Holding PFAS Manufacturers Accountable
At Riddle & Brantley, we have been at the forefront of the fight against PFAS contamination, working to secure justice for those harmed by these dangerous chemicals. Our experienced attorneys are actively investigating cases where exposure to PFAS through contaminated water, industrial exposure, firefighting foam (AFFF), or other sources may have led to cancer or other severe health conditions. For decades, we have been holding negligent manufacturers accountable for liability and/or wrongdoing, and we are committed to doing the same in ongoing PFAS lawsuits.
PFAS chemicals, such as PFOA, PFOS, and GenX, have been used in a wide variety of consumer and industrial products for their resistance to water, heat, and stains. However, their persistence in the environment and the human body means that exposure can lead to devastating health outcomes, including various types of cancer, ulcerative colitis, and more. Our legal team understands the complexity of these cases and has a proven track record of securing compensation for victims of PFAS-related injuries.
You may qualify for a PFAS lawsuit if you meet the following criteria:
- You were exposed to a PFAS, PFOS, or GenX chemical due to industrial exposure or products, commercial products, contaminated water, AFFF firefighting foam, or another qualifying source of exposure
- NOTE: Exposure from consumer products containing PFAS currently do not qualify for these specific lawsuits
- You suffered from kidney cancer, liver cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, or ulcerative colitis
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no upfront costs for our clients. You won’t pay any attorney fees unless we win your case and recover compensation on your behalf.
For a FREE case review, please call 1-800-525-7111.
To determine if you qualify, it's important to consult with an experienced PFAS attorney who can evaluate your claim, provide guidance, and, if you qualify, help you pursue the compensation you deserve. At Riddle & Brantley, we offer a FREE, no-obligation case review to evaluate your eligibility for a PFAS lawsuit. Our attorneys are here to answer your questions, assess your case, and guide you through the legal process.
Contact us today at 1-800-525-7111 or complete the convenient online form below to schedule your free consultation. Don’t wait—the longer you delay in seeking legal advice, the harder it may become to prove liability and secure the compensation you deserve. Let us help you fight for justice and protect your rights against those who potentially caused harm through PFAS contamination.
Justice Counts. Reach out to us today, and let’s see how we can help.