The Tragic Death of Jeunelle Robinson: A $30 Million Settlement
Jeunelle Robinson, a social studies teacher at Wagener-Salley High School, was tragically killed while grabbing lunch during a break. The 31-year-old was struck in the head by a rotting 70-year-old utility pole in downtown Wagener.
Last Thursday, a landmark settlement was reached, with the family of Jeunelle Robinson to receive $30 million in a wrongful death suit. Dominion Energy and Comporium, the electric and communications companies involved, respectively, agreed to the settlement.
The incident occurred when a truck snagged a drooping pole line, causing a pole to break and strike Robinson. Surveillance footage captured the heartbreaking moment, showing Robinson attempting to dodge the falling pole before it hit her.
The settlement agreement does not specify each company’s share of the $30 million settlement. However, the family’s lawyer, Justin Bamberg, expressed gratitude for Dominion and Comporium’s cooperation in resolving the case.
Following Robinson’s tragic death, Dominion had announced plans to replace aging equipment in Wagener, underscoring the importance of inspecting and replacing potentially dangerous infrastructure.
In remembrance of Robinson, the family intends to establish the Jeunelle Robinson Teacher’s Hope Fund, aiming to provide school supplies and support to teachers nationwide. Robinson’s father highlighted her dedication to her students, describing her as a light taken too soon.
Through this settlement, the hope is to prevent similar tragedies and honor Robinson’s memory by supporting teachers and schools across the country.
