Batesville Casket to pay $18 million in lawsuit settlement

BATESVILLE, Ind. – Batesville Casket Co. has agreed to pay more than $18 million in a lawsuit settlement claiming it stole employees and customers from a competitor.

The casket maker will pay Pittsburgh-based Matthews International Corporation $17 million upfront and an additional $1.75 million in attorney fees.

The lawsuit filed in federal court alleged Batesville interfered with business operations of Matthews.

Thomas Pontone, President of Matthews Funeral Home Products Division, said in a statement he was “pleased the defendants have agreed to settle the case for a significant amount.”