A $9 Million Reminder of Asbestos’ Reach

When most people think of asbestos, they may picture aging insulation in old buildings, dusty construction sites, electrical wiring in need of some TLC, or large-scale industrial equipment. But recently, a high-profile mesothelioma claim revealed that this dangerous material was hiding in a place very few would expect: shotgun shells.

In July 2025, a Delaware jury awarded $9 million to the family of Illinois hunter Eugene Schoepke, who passed away in 2022 from mesothelioma — a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Investigations traced his exposure to asbestos-laced shotgun shells manufactured by DuPont and Remington.

A Hidden Hazard in Everyday Use

In the 1960s, DuPont reportedly began incorporating asbestos into certain Remington and Peters brand shotgun shells. The decision was made despite asbestos’ severe health risks, which were not made public until the 1970s and 1980s.

Still, manufacturers like DuPont likely should have been aware of the risks – and either relayed them to workers and product consumers, or stopped using asbestos altogether Other manufacturers avoided asbestos entirely, yet DuPont proceeded without issuing consumer warnings or recalls.

The shells had a long shelf-life, remaining in use well into the 1980s and beyond. For decades, hunters unknowingly risked inhaling asbestos fibers simply by handling or firing their ammunition.

A Broader Pattern of Exposure

This case serves as a reminder that asbestos exposure isn’t confined to the most obvious places. While construction materials, automobile brake pads, and industrial equipment have long been known categories for asbestos use, history shows that asbestos also made its way into unexpected consumer products — from household appliances like toaster ovens to talc cosmetics like mascara to recreational gear like shotgun shells.

If asbestos could appear in something as seemingly harmless as shotgun shells, it raises important questions about what other everyday items might have carried hidden risks.

The Human Impact

Eugene Schoepke’s story is deeply personal. He was a father, a farmer and an avid hunter — someone who relied on trusted brands without reason to suspect danger. The $9 million verdict offers his family a measure of justice, but it also underscores the long-lasting consequences of corporate decisions and the critical importance of transparency.

Key Takeaways From the Asbestos Shotgun Shell Case

• Vintage or long-stored items may still pose asbestos risks.
• Exposure can occur in unexpected ways and from seemingly ordinary products.
• Awareness and due diligence are essential, even decades after asbestos’s dangers became widely known.

This mesothelioma lawsuit is not just a legal milestone; it’s a reminder that the legacy of asbestos continues to impact lives today. Recognizing where it may still exist is the first step toward prevention and protection.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, it’s important to understand your legal rights. BCBH Law has extensive experience handling asbestos exposure cases and can help you explore your options.

Contact BCBH Law today for a free consultation to discuss your case and take the next step toward securing the justice you deserve.

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