Bath & Body Works Avoids Sanctions in Candle-Explosion Lawsuit

An injured woman’s suspicion that Bath & Body Works LLC conducted a “silent recall” of three-wick candles and hid evidence of it isn’t enough to show a basis for contempt of court and sanctions, a federal court in California ruled.

Plaintiff Crystal Lakes alleged a three-wick “Eucalyptus Spearmint” candle “exploded” when she tried to extinguish it. Melted wax allegedly splashed on her and left her with significant injuries and permanent scarring.

Lakes “believed” that recent deposition testimony in another case by a store manager would show Bath & Body Works sent an email to managers across the country, instructing them ...