The family of Antonio Gaston, a 53-year-old father of four who tragically lost his life in a workplace accident at Stellantis’ Toledo Assembly Complex last year, has filed a lawsuit against Stellantis North America and other involved parties.

Gaston, a proud member of United Auto Workers Local 12, had dedicated 12 years of service to the company. On August 21, 2024, while working on the Jeep Gladiator production line, he was fatally injured in an incident that, according to the lawsuit, was the direct result of the removal of critical safety equipment from the plant.

Accompanied by their legal team, Gaston’s family will hold a press conference today at noon to address the lawsuit and share their pursuit of justice. A copy of the legal complaint will be made public later today. The event will be streamed live on WTOL 11+.

Stellantis has not yet issued a public comment regarding the lawsuit. WTOL 11 has reached out for a statement. In the past, Stellantis spokesperson Ann Marie Fortunate has discussed production interruptions at the Toledo facility but has not specifically addressed the fatal accident.

In December 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited Stellantis for a serious safety violation, concluding that the company failed to implement adequate safety measures to protect workers from crushing hazards on the Jeep Gladiator line. The violation resulted in a $16,131 fine.

For Gaston’s family, the legal action is not only about accountability but also about preventing similar tragedies from happening again. Loved ones remember him as a dedicated worker, a loyal friend, and, above all, a devoted father who should have returned home that day.

Justice, they say, is the least he deserves.