Fort Jackson Water Contamination Lawsuit

What Happened at Fort Jackson?

Key Takeaways

• Studies have found PFAS, RDX, and lead in Fort Jackson’s water supply. Health officials continue to evaluate potential risks.
• Some studies are exploring possible links between these substances and health issues like nerve or organ effects, but research is ongoing.
• Contamination is mainly a threat to military families, veterans, and civilians who lived on or near the base at the time of the contamination.
• Some individuals affected by Fort Jackson’s water contamination may pursue compensation through legal action. This can include claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Eligibility depends on case-specific factors.

Fort Jackson, a U.S. military base in Columbia, South Carolina, has been the subject of toxic water contamination claims, with lawsuits alleging health impacts.

Water contamination at Fort Jackson has raised public concerns. It has also led to questions about efforts to protect local residents and service members.

History of Water Contamination on the Base

Fort Jackson has been a site of U.S. Army training since 1917. The base’s main mission is to teach new recruits basic soldiering skills. However, the base’s water supply was adversely impacted due to many years of military training and operations.

Fort Jackson’s water contains chemicals such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been studied for potential health effects. These substances persist in the environment for decades. The site has documented contamination that poses risks. Fort Jackson has been evaluated under the EPA’s Superfund program and has an official Site Profile. However, it was never added to the National Priorities List (NPL).

Contamination on the base was due to military activities. These include the following:

• Firefighting at Fort Jackson with AFFF released PFAS compounds into the environment. The groundwater previously became contaminated due to these compounds entering the water. The reason these chemicals also last a long time in the natural environment is because they decay slowly.
• Artillery and explosives training at Fort Jackson released RDX and other contaminants into the soil. These contaminants then seeped into the groundwater.
• Training area activities are a source of chemical runoff into the water.

Many individuals affected by this toxic exposure are seeking legal action for related health problems.

Contaminants Found in Fort Jackson’s Drinking Water

Testing has detected 3 main hazardous substances in Fort Jackson’s drinking water: RDX, lead, and PFAS.

• Health experts continue to assess potential risks. Service members, as well as the residents, might have been exposed. 
• Long-term exposure to these contaminants has been associated in some studies with serious health issues. These contaminants can also cause reproduction and child development problems.
• Some research suggests that exposure to these substances may increase the risk of cancer or organ damage.
• In 2022, the Department of Defense found unsafe toxin levels in the water at 116 military sites, including Fort Jackson. As of September 2024, the Department of Defense identified 578 military sites that require PFAS-related cleanup.
• Fort Jackson has about 32 active contamination sites, called Areas of Concern (AOC) or Solid Waste Management Units (SWMU).

PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”)

• PFAS stands for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.
• The U.S. Army has documented PFAS contamination at Fort Jackson.
• PFAS are man-made chemicals that resist heat, water, and oil. They don’t break down naturally and can remain in the environment indefinitely. Traces of these chemicals often remain in water even after cleanup. AFFF, the military’s firefighting foam used in the past, contained these substances. At Fort Jackson, this is one of the biggest contributors to water pollution.
• Some studies link PFAS exposure to kidney, testicular, and thyroid cancers, but research is still ongoing.
• Some studies suggest PFAS exposure may increase heart risks and raise cholesterol levels.
• The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has acknowledged PFAS exposure as a potential concern for service members. It’s currently reviewing how these chemicals may affect veterans’ health.

RDX (military explosive compound)

• RDX stands for Royal Demolition Explosive.
• The drinking water at Fort Jackson contained RDX, a toxic chemical that is commonly found in hand grenades.
• The most common way people near Fort Jackson are exposed to RDX is by drinking water from local wells.
• RDX is a common explosive and is used in many battlefield operations. It is also used in grenades, artillery shells, and demolition charges.
• RDX contamination can affect both groundwater and surface water. It poses potential health risks to those exposed.
• Over eight years, the Army tested water from 195 wells near Fort Jackson, collecting more than 1,000 samples. RDX wasn’t detected in most of them; 164 showed no trace. At 10 sites where RDX exceeded the Health Advisory Level, the Army installed water treatment systems.
• According to the EPA, RDX levels in drinking water shouldn’t exceed 2.0 micrograms per liter under its Health Advisory Level (HAL). The agency also set a Regional Screening Level (RSL) at 0.97 micrograms per liter to help assess potential risks.

Lead Contamination

• Lead contamination in the water supply at Fort Jackson has been confirmed.
• Old military infrastructure may have contributed to lead contamination at Fort Jackson. This may include plumbing, ammunition storage, and training exercises.
• Military training at Fort Jackson may contribute to lead, phosphorus, and other metal runoff. These substances can seep into nearby water sources, increasing the risk of contamination.

Health Risks and Medical Conditions Associated with Contaminated Water

Exposure to PFAS, RDX, and lead-based chemicals can cause severe medical issues. Drinking contaminated water for a long period of time can cause severe health damage.

Cancers and Severe Illnesses

• The types of contaminants found at Fort Jackson have been associated with multiple types of cancer.
• PFAS exposure has been associated with various cancers, including kidney, testicular, thyroid, and breast cancer. Ongoing research is evaluating these links.
• There are no studies of cancer in people exposed to RDX. Based on studies of mice, the United States Environmental Protection Agency considers RDX as having suggested evidence of carcinogenic potential.

Potential Cancer Risks Associated with Fort Jackson PFAS Water Contamination

Exposure to these toxic substances found in Fort Jackson’s drinking water has been associated with several types of cancer, including:

• Kidney cancer

• Bladder cancer

• Liver cancer

• Pancreatic cancer

• Prostate cancer

• Breast cancer

• Thyroid cancer

• Testicular cancer

• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

If you or a loved one was exposed to contaminated water and later diagnosed with a related illness, you may have legal options. Request a free case evaluation!

Other Health Effects

Drinking polluted water at Fort Jackson may cause many health issues beyond just cancer. These issues can interfere with people’s daily activities.

More Risks Associated with PFAS, RDX, and Lead Contamination

• Reproductive & Pregnancy Risks – Toxic exposure may increase the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, and fertility problems.
• Heart Health Concerns – PFAS has been associated with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and a greater risk of heart disease.
• Immune System Impact – PFAS exposure can weaken the immune system, making vaccines and treatments less effective.
• Neurological Effects – RDX exposure may cause dizziness, memory problems, muscle twitching, and seizures.

Lead Poisoning Risks – Lead contamination has been associated with brain damage, kidney disease, and heart problems.

Who Qualifies for the Fort Jackson Water Contamination Lawsuit?

Possible Compensation in Water Contamination Claims

Compensation in lawsuits can vary widely depending on the strength of the case and other factors. The cost of treatment, the severity of a person’s illness, and the legal processes all contribute to the amount of money received. The length of exposure can also play a role.

Settlement Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique, and compensation depends on individual circumstances.

Factors That May Influence Compensation

Medical Diagnosis and Prognosis

The type and severity of the illness matter. Conditions that require long-term treatment or result in disability may impact compensation. Toxic exposure cases often rely on documented medical diagnoses.

Exposure History and Duration

How long someone lived or worked at or near Fort Jackson and their level of exposure could be important. Claimants may need to provide proof of residency or military service to support their case.

Medical and Scientific Evidence

To qualify, claimants need medical records, test results, or expert evaluations linking their condition to exposure. This documentation helps establish a strong case. Legal professionals can help gather and present this evidence.

Laws and Court Cases

Compensation policies may change based on new laws and court rulings. 

Recoverable Damages

Courts assess medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial losses. Non-financial damages, such as pain and suffering, may also be considered. Each case is evaluated based on its unique details and applicable laws.

How to File a Fort Jackson Water Contamination Lawsuit

Note: Fill out the form or call to see if legal options may be available. Inquiries will be shared with a partner law firm under a marketing arrangement to assist with next steps.

If you’re considering filing, a lawyer can help guide you through the process and evidence gathering. If you’ve been affected by Fort Jackson’s water contamination, here’s how to get started.

Steps to Take for Filing a Claim

• Talk to a Lawyer – A legal expert can review your case and explain your options.
• Collect Important Documents – Military service records, medical reports, and proof of exposure can strengthen the claim.
• Start the Legal Process – A lawyer will determine the appropriate legal steps based on case details and applicable laws.

Note: You are not required to hire a lawyer to file a claim, but legal guidance can help you understand your rights and options.

Why Work With a Water Contamination Lawyer?

A water contamination lawyer can help gather evidence and explore whether you might recover damages. A lawyer also help negotiate settlements and gather expert opinions. Additionally, they work to meet all legal deadlines.

Settlement Disclaimer: Past outcomes don’t predict future results. Each case is different.

How Legal Representation Can Support Your Claim

• Case Evaluation and Legal Guidance – Attorneys assess eligibility, legal options, and applicable claims under relevant laws.
• Evidentiary Support and Causation Analysis – Legal counsel helps gather medical records, military service documentation, and expert opinions to establish a connection between exposure and illness.
• Procedural Compliance and Advocacy – Attorneys ensure adherence to applicable legal deadlines, filing requirements, and jurisdictional rules.

No Upfront Fees – Representation on a Contingency Basis

• Fee Structure – Many lawyers operate on a contingency basis. Their clients are only charged for their legal services after they win compensation.
• Access to Legal Services – Claimants can pursue claims without paying legal fees in advance.

Contingency Fee Disclaimer: Clients may be responsible for court costs. In some cases, they may also be responsible for opposing parties’ fees if a recovery is not obtained.

Get a Free Case Review

Note: Fill out the form or call to see if legal options may be available. Inquiries will be shared with a partner law firm under a marketing arrangement to assist with next steps.

If you or a loved one were exposed to contaminated water at Fort Jackson and have a diagnosed illness associated with PFAS exposure, you may have legal options. If you’d like to learn more, you can request a free consultation by filling out the form.