Humeston trial opens without key Merck witness

As opening arguments began in the Humeston vs. Merck trial today, Merck has a serious problem. One of its key witnesses, Dr. Merlin Wilson, a rheumatologist, will not be able to give testimony at the trial since he has been affected by Hurricane Katrina.

While the doctor and his family were able to evacuate on time and are now in Houston, Texas, his clinic and all his personal effects have been destroyed. It is not clear at this time but it is likely that Hurricane Katrina may also delay the federal lawsuits trial that was scheduled to start in New Orleans.

Dr. Wilson has prescribed Vioxx to his patients in the past and was expected to testify about the safety of Vioxx.

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