Dozens more U.S. military family members and civilians have joined a federal lawsuit against the Navy for causing a water contamination crisis that sickened thousands of people last year.

More than 100 plaintiffs were added to the case, which was originally filed in August. The amended complaint notes that the Navy destroyed more than 1,000 water samples that were taken from the homes of affected families in the early days of the crisis.

“This destruction of the evidence has robbed plaintiffs of the opportunity to know what was in their water,” the amended lawsuit states.

The impacted families have experienced seizures, gastrointestinal disorders, neurological problems, burns, rashes, lesions, thyroid issues and migraines, among other ailments, according to the suit.

“Our legal team is working hard to hold the Navy accountable for its conduct before, during and after the Red Hill contamination,” Kristina S. Baehr said in a statement. “Our case has gained momentum and our investigation continues.”

The case is scheduled for a trial beginning Jan. 29, 2024.

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