Texas Auto Salvage, Inc., Gary Hack, and Daniel Hack v. D D Ramirez, Inc., Danny Ramirez Recycling, Inc., San Antonio Auto & Truck Salvage, Danny's Recycling & Precious Metals, LLC, Danny's Recycling, Inc., and Daniel Delagarza Ramirez
Appellants, Texas Auto Salvage, Inc., Gary Hack, and Daniel Hack (TASI), sued appellees, D D Ramirez, Inc., et al. (DDR), over a dispute regarding their neighboring metal recycling facilities in San Antonio. TASI alleged various claims including public and private nuisance, arguing DDR’s facilities were polluted and violated city ordinances, causing harm to TASI’s business and property. After a jury trial, the jury found against TASI on most claims, and the trial court granted DDR’s motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict (JNOV), issuing a take-nothing judgment. On appeal, TASI challenged the denial of injunctive relief and the JNOV on its public nuisance claim, as well as the exclusion of expert testimony and the factual insufficiency of evidence for its private nuisance claim. The Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court’s judgment, concluding that TASI lacked standing to bring its public and private nuisance claims as it failed to demonstrate a substantial special injury distinct from the public at large.