Husband of woman killed in nursing home explosion files lawsuit – Bucks Round-Up – January 14, 2026
Husband of woman killed in nursing home explosion files lawsuit
A wrongful death lawsuit has been filed in connection with last month’s deadly explosion at the Bristol Health & Rehab Center, adding to growing legal pressure on the nursing facility and utility provider involved. David Ndegwa Mathenge, the husband of 52-year-old nurse Muthoni Nduthu, is suing the Bristol facility, its owner Saber Healthcare Holdings, PECO Energy, and PECO’s parent company Exelon. Nduthu was one of three people killed in the December 23 explosion at the Tower Road nursing home. According to the complaint, defendants allegedly knew about a gas leak and odor for hours — or possibly days — before the blast but failed to evacuate residents, staff, or visitors. The lawsuit claims workers and residents were instructed to remain inside despite what it calls an “extreme danger,” amounting to a conscious disregard for safety. Twenty people were injured in the explosion, which damaged nearby homes. A PECO utility crew was on scene investigating a reported gas odor when the blast occurred. The National Transportation Safety Board continues to investigate the cause. Multiple other lawsuits from injured victims have already been filed. Nduthu is survived by her husband, three sons, and a granddaughter. Her funeral is scheduled for Saturday in Bensalem.
Bristol Borough Police chief responds to criticism from new mayor
Tensions surfaced at this week’s Bristol Borough Council meeting as Police Chief Joe Moors publicly responded to criticism from newly sworn-in Mayor Frank Peranteau Sr. Moors said the mayor faulted him during the inauguration ceremony for not wearing a white uniform shirt. The chief pushed back, stating his contract does not require a white shirt and that the mayor had reviewed the contract prior to taking office. Moors emphasized unity within the department and said public criticism was not a constructive way to build a working relationship. The mayor and council did not respond to Moors’ remarks during the meeting.
Human trafficking awareness month recognized in Bucks County
Bucks County Commissioners formally recognized January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Commissioner Bob Harvie (D) praised the work of the Bucks Coalition Against Trafficking and NOVA for their efforts in prevention, education, and victim support. NOVA officials reported conducting 27 assessments in 2025 involving suspected commercial exploitation of children and young adults, resulting in multiple law enforcement investigations, one conviction, and ongoing prosecutions. The organization provided services to more than 75 human trafficking survivors in Bucks County last year.
Joe LeCompte hosts LeCompte in the Morning on WBCB 1490.
