Russell v. R.J. Reynolds

Summary

In this tobacco trial, Marine Robert McCain was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1992 after smoking cigarettes for decades. While this cancer was treated, he eventually developed fatal chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. His family sues R.J. Reynolds, producer of the Pall Mall and Kool brand cigarettes that McCain enjoyed.

McCain's family claims Reynolds concealed the risks of smoking for decades, leading to McCain's addiction to cigarettes and eventual lung cancer. Despite the cancer being treated successfully, they argue that the treatment affected his respiratory system and made him more susceptible to COPD.

R.J. Reynolds claims McCain was aware of the dangers of smoking, yet chose to smoke because he enjoyed it. Additionally, they question the relationship between his lung cancer and COPD, with medical records noting changes in McCain's lungs from as early as 1980

Outcome

Verdict for defendant.