A lawsuit filed against Sumaria Systems, LLC, alleges that gender and racial discrimination played a role in the death of Stephanie Cosme, a 32-year-old testing engineer killed in a drone accident last September. Cosme, who worked for the Air Force contractor, was struck by a rotating propeller during ground testing at Gray Butte Airfield.
The family contends that Cosme's supervisor, Derek Kirkendall, fostered a hostile work environment. They claim his actions, including allegedly isolating Cosme, assigning her dangerous tasks, and using anti-Hispanic remarks, ultimately contributed to the accident.
The U.S. Air Force Accident Investigation Board report, released in April, detailed procedural failures by a trainer, but didn't mention discrimination as a factor. However, the lawsuit presents witness testimonies that paint a different picture, highlighting the alleged mistreatment of Cosme.
Sumaria Systems denies any wrongdoing and intends to defend Kirkendall in court. The company's response also disputes the allegations and claims Cosme violated safety protocols. While the Air Force report found procedural errors, further safety recommendations remain confidential. Separately, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health imposed penalties on Sumaria for safety violations related to the accident, but those violations also did not cite discrimination.
Cosme's sister, Cassaundra, described the agonizing wait for answers and the subsequent relief, but also the profound sense of injustice. The family's lawsuit seeks a jury trial and damages for the loss of their loved one. Cosme's family highlights her dedication to engineering, noting she faced challenges in a male-dominated field. Her career aspirations were abruptly cut short just months before her wedding.
The case raises significant questions about the handling of workplace safety procedures and potential discrimination within the defense industry. The ongoing legal battle underscores the complex dynamics between workplace culture, safety protocols, and the consequences of workplace harassment in high-risk environments.
