MIAMI — A judge granted class action status to plaintiffs in a toxic exposure lawsuit over a former incinerator in Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood, attorneys for the plaintiffs announced Monday morning.

The lawsuit, filed against against the city of Miami by The Downs Law Group, alleges that residents in the historically-Black West Grove section were exposed to cancer-causing ash from an incinerator that operated there for more than 40 years, known infamously as “Old Smokey.”

It was located at 3425 Jefferson St. and currently houses a training facility for Miami Fire Rescue.

According to the firm representing the plaintiffs, the judge certified a class “encompassing approximately 2,220 residential properties across Coconut Grove and Coral Gables that are alleged to have been contaminated by ash and emissions from the Old Smokey incinerator.”

“As part of the certification process, all identified properties will receive mailed notices informing owners and residents of their potential eligibility, as required under class action procedures,” a news release from the plaintiffs states.

The plaintiffs state they are seeking medical monitoring for early detection of cancer and other illnesses and compensation for property damage caused by contamination.

Lawyers representing the city have tried to have the suit dismissed.

Local 10 News has contacted the city seeking comment on the case.

Judge grants class action for Grove, Gables residents in ‘Old Smokey’ suit, attorneys say

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Chris Gothner