2014day.year
The American city of Flint, Michigan switches its water source to the Flint River, beginning the ongoing Flint water crisis which has caused lead poisoning in up to 12,000 people, and at least 12 deaths from Legionnaires' disease, ultimately leading to criminal indictments against 15 people, five of whom have been charged with involuntary manslaughter.
The city of Flint, Michigan, switches its water source to the Flint River, triggering a public health crisis from lead contamination and Legionnaires' disease outbreaks.
On April 21, 2014, Flint, Michigan, switched its water supply to the Flint River as a cost-saving measure, triggering a major public health crisis from lead contamination and Legionnaires' disease. Corrosive river water leached lead from aging pipes, exposing an estimated 12,000 residents to dangerous levels of the neurotoxin. Simultaneously, the contaminated water supply was linked to an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease responsible for at least 12 deaths. Despite early warnings and test results showing elevated lead levels, local and state officials initially dismissed concerns. Persistent community activism, investigative journalism, and scientific studies eventually forced authorities to declare a state of emergency, switch back to Detroit water, and distribute bottled water. Criminal indictments followed against 15 officials accused of misconduct, five of whom were charged with involuntary manslaughter. The Flint water crisis remains a stark example of environmental injustice, governmental failure, and the power of citizen advocacy.
2014
Flint, Michigan
Flint River
Flint water crisis
lead poisoning
Legionnaires' disease
involuntary manslaughter