Parrot v. Wells, Fargo & Co. (The Nitro-Glycerine Case)
United States Supreme Court
82 U.S. 524 (1872)
Relevant factsFree
Wells, Fargo (defendant) shipped a crate later revealed to contain nitroglycerine, unaware of its contents (as little was then known about the substance's properties), and after the leaking crate was brought into a company building, an employee opening it with a mallet and chisel triggered an explosion that killed and injured many, including Parrot (plaintiff), who sued for his injuries; the district court found Wells, Fargo not liable.
IssueFree
Whether a defendant engaged in a lawful shipping business, with no knowledge of dangerous cargo contents, is liable for negligence in handling those dangerous items when they later cause injury, death, and property damage.