Family Dollar, Amazon Lawsuit Over Tabletop Fire Pit Burn Injuries

Lawsuit claims tabletop fire pits and fuel containers are defectively designed, leading to flame jetting, explosions and severe burns.

Despite federal regulators calling for sellers to remove tabletop fire pits from the market, a Rhode Island man says he suffered severe burn injuries due to the design of one sold by Family Dollar.

The complaint (PDF) was brought by Aaron T. Daniels, Jr. in Rhode Island federal court on December 1, naming Family Dollar Stores LLC, Family Dollar Stores of Rhode Island LLC., Midwood Brands LLC, Amazon.com Inc. and ABC Corporation as defendants.

Tabletop fire pits are small, alcohol-fueled decorative pieces intended for use either indoors or outdoors, which have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, consumers and federal regulators have also reported a growing number of tabletop fire pit explosions, in which sudden jets of flame erupt during refueling, triggering flash fires that ignite clothing, furniture or anyone standing nearby.

Last year, nearly 90,000 Colsen brand fire pits sold at Amazon, Walmart, Sharper Image and elsewhere were recalled following reports of at least 19 burn injuries. More recently, Five Below recalled approximately 66,000 tabletop fire pits in September, due to reports of leaking fuel causing flash fires and burn injuries.

Along with the recalls has come a series of recent tabletop fire pit lawsuits filed against Amazon and various different manufacturers and retailers, alleging that the devices are defectively designed and have led to at least two deaths and 60 injuries since 2019.

According to Daniels’ lawsuit, he was using the firepit on an outdoor table in his back yard in August when a bottle of Triti Bioethanol Fireplace Fuel sold by Amazon.com exploded while attempting to refuel it. The firepit was sold even after the U.S.  Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warned about such risks, the lawsuit argues.

The lawsuit indicates Daniels’ wife bought the fire pit in April at Family Dollar and the fuel on Amazon, despite warnings dating back to January 2023.

“At that time, the Subject Firepit did not comply with the requirements in safety standard ASTM F3363-19 issued by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) concerning safety requirements for devices that burn liquid fuel in an open container.”

– Aaron T. Daniels, Jr. v. Family Dollar Stores LLC et al

Daniels indicates he suffered “catastrophic” burn injuries to his face and body, resulting in permanent injuries that required multiple surgeries. He presents claims of negligence, strict liability, breach of warranties, and is seeking both compensatory and punitive damages.

Tabletop Fire Pit Lawsuits

Tabletop fire pit lawsuits are now under investigation by attorneys nationwide, due to hazardous products and designs being sold through Amazon.com, Walmart and other major retailers. Individuals who suffered physical or emotional harm from alcohol-fueled fire pit accidents may be entitled to compensation.

Injuries reported from tabletop fire pits include:

• Second- and third-degree burns requiring medical care
• Permanent scarring, nerve damage or reduced mobility
• Breathing injuries caused by sudden fire eruptions
• Burns to children or nearby bystanders
• Accidents involving flame jetting during refueling
• Fatal injuries linked to fire pit explosions
• Lost wages or time away from work
• Extended medical treatment, hospitalization or rehabilitation
• Long-term disfigurement or psychological trauma

Those who believe they may qualify can submit their information for a free case review. A tabletop fire pit attorney can help confirm which product was involved, determine whether the injury is connected to a recalled or dangerous model and outline available legal options.

These cases are typically handled on a contingency basis, so there are no upfront costs and no attorney fees unless a recovery is made.

Sign up for more legal news that could affect you or your family.