Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds Face Trial Over Woman’s Lung Cancer Death in Massachusetts

Dec.03

According to Law360, the family of Maria Petruzziello has taken Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds to trial in Massachusetts, alleging the companies are responsible for her 2019 lung cancer death after decades of smoking. Plaintiffs argue her experience mirrors many smokers, while the defense points to her years-long cessation and personal choice.

Key Points

Family alleges Philip Morris and R.J. Reynolds are liable for Petruzziello’s lung cancer death.
Plaintiffs say Marlboro Lights’ design increased cigarette consumption.
Defense cites a nine-year cessation period and personal decision-making.
“Unknown” on death certificate linked to a rare mutation type, defense argues.
Trial is underway in Middlesex County Superior Court.

2Firsts, December 3, 2025 — According to Law360, the family of Maria Petruzziello began trial proceedings Tuesday against Philip Morris USA and R.J. Reynolds in Massachusetts state court, alleging the companies contributed to her death from Stage 4 lung cancer in 2019. Petruzziello, an Italian immigrant, had smoked for more than 40 years.

Plaintiffs’ counsel Randy Rosenblum argued that Marlboro Lights’ design led smokers to consume more to maintain nicotine intake. He noted Petruzziello began smoking at age 14 and continued after immigrating to the U.S.

Rosenblum referenced the tobacco industry’s historical denial of smoking risks and said “lights” terminology persisted until federal regulation shifted in 2010.

Philip Morris attorney Joseph Fasi countered that medical records show Petruzziello stopped smoking between 2006 and 2015, emphasizing smoking as a matter of personal choice. He said the “unknown” entry on her death certificate related to a rare genetic mutation found in her tumor.

The case, filed by her husband and three adult daughters, is being heard in Middlesex County Superior Court, case number 2181-CV-00378.

References:

[1] Philip Morris, RJR Owe For Woman's Lung Cancer, Jury Told

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn

Notice

1. This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2. The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3. This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4. Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

Copyright

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

AI Assistance Disclaimer

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

2Firsts Observation｜PMI Launches IQOS ILUMA i × SELETTI Limited Edition at Dubai Airport

2Firsts observed that Philip Morris International (PMI) has set up a large-scale IQOS display at Dubai International Airport’s duty-free area, featuring the TEREA tobacco stick series with promotional offers. The brand also showcased its limited-edition collaboration with Italian design house SELETTI — IQOS ILUMA i × SELETTI — further strengthening its premium image through artistic design.

Nov.13 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Lawmakers Clash as Mexico Moves to Criminalize Sale and Promotion of Vapes

Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies Health Commission has approved a bill establishing a total ban on vapes and e-cigarettes, with penalties ranging from one to eight years in prison and fines between Mex$11,000 and Mex$226,000 (USD ≈$600–$12,300). The proposal sparked controversy among opposition lawmakers, who argued that the legislation criminalizes users rather than focusing on regulation and prevention.

Nov.26 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Bhutan to Impose 115% Tax on E-cigarettes Starting January 2026

The Ministry of Health (MoH) of Bhutan has announced stronger actions to combat the growing threat of e-cigarette use, especially among youth. While no new vaping-related lung collapse cases have been reported since 2024, the MoH confirmed that fiscal and legal reforms are underway to include e-cigarettes in tax and tobacco control laws starting January 2026.

Nov.05 by 2FIRSTS.ai

XQS Rolls Out Two Beverage-Flavoured Nicotine Pouches in UK; Says Convenience Stores Are the Fastest-Growing Channel

Scandinavian Tobacco Group (STG) UK has added two beverage-inspired variants—Cola Lime and Fizzy Peach—to its XQS nicotine pouch range. Both come in an 8mg strength and are available exclusively via the Vape Supplier website, with a recommended retail price of £5.50.