A former Keyport resident began marking red X's on a Google Map, one for each neighbor diagnosed with cancer. What began as a hunch has grown into a potential public health crisis. According to recent reports, 28 homes on First Street alone now bear an “X,” and that number only continues to grow.

What Is Happening in Keyport?

Residents and their families have reported cancers of the brain, lung, stomach, colon, breast, and more, concentrated in a small geographic area near the shore. Public health experts who have reviewed the data say the initial numbers appear striking. For example, Dr. Alexis Mraz, an associate professor of public health at The College of New Jersey, called it "a crazy high percentage" of cancer cases upon reviewing the map, and said it is "definitely worth looking into."

What Is the Suspected Source?

Residents, local officials, and environmental experts seemingly point to the Aeromarine facility, a former landfill which closed down in 1979. The site was originally used by Aeromarine, a company that manufactured aircraft for the U.S. Army and Navy in the early 20th century, before being converted into a landfill in the 1960s and 1970s.

An environmental study in 2010 identified at least five carcinogens at the site associated with lung, breast, bladder, pancreatic, prostate, and kidney cancers, as well as leukemia and lymphoma. Experts warned that the site may have been releasing toxic chemicals into the surrounding air, water, and soil for decades.

Wilentz Is Investigating

Our attorneys are currently investigating potential legal claims on behalf of Keyport residents and former residents who have been diagnosed with cancer or other serious illnesses, as well as the families of those who have died.

Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer, P.A. has a 40-year history of representing families and communities in complex environmental and toxic tort matters. If you or a loved one lived or worked in the Keyport area, particularly near First Street or the Aeromarine landfill site, and have been diagnosed with cancer or another serious illness, we would like to speak with you. Our investigation is ongoing, and gathering information from those affected is a critical part of understanding the full scope of what may have happened in this community.

There is no cost and no obligation to speak with our team. Schedule a free consultation or call a member of the Wilentz team today.