May 18, 2013
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (AP) -- A Hamilton County family named defendants in a wrongful death lawsuit say the suit will only cause greater sorrow.
The family of Michael Hennen, who was killed along with Hannah Barnes when struck at a farm railroad crossing, issued a statement through attorney Al Henry on Tuesday.
In it, the family noted the "unspeakable tragedy" has caused profound sorrow to both families and called the suit "regretful" and "unmerited."
Investigators said Hennen and Barnes were lying on the railroad on the Hennen family's farm last August when a Norfolk Southern freight struck and killed them. Barnes was a hostess at the Hennens' restaurant.
Lisa Barnes filed a $25 million lawsuit last week against the Hennen family, the family's farm, Michael Hennen's estate and the railroad.
