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Couple sues Richland County and Scout Motors over plant construction damage

An elderly Richland County couple, William Shives, 92, and Barbara Shives, 84, filed a lawsuit on Aug. 7 against Richland County and Scout Motors, alleging that construction of Scout Motors' Blythewood manufacturing plant altered the water table, caused their septic system to fail, produced blasting vibration and debris, and washed out their driveway, forcing them to abandon their home. The claims include trespass, private nuisance, strict liability for blasting, negligence and gross negligence, and inverse condemnation; they seek actual, consequential and punitive damages plus abatement. Scout Motors said it cannot comment on pending litigation but remains committed to safe construction and community engagement.