LAWSUIT FILED: Nine people have sued Chevron Corp. over a California refinery fire that sent thousands to hospitals with respiratory issues and contributed to higher gasoline prices on the West Coast.

NEGLIGENCE CLAIM: The lawsuit claims Chevron was grossly negligent in its handling of refinery maintenance as well as emergency response to the blaze in Richmond, near San Francisco.

MORE PLAINTIFFS: The suit was filed Wednesday in Contra Costa County Superior Court on behalf of the nine people, including three children. The attorneys expect more plaintiffs to join the case and said a class-action suit is likely against Chevron.