R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, as successor by merger to Lorillard Tobacco Company v. Kathleen Gafney, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Frank Eugene Gafney

R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and Lorillard Tobacco Company (“appellants”) 1 appeal from an adverse jury verdict in favor of Kathleen Gafney, as Personal Representative ‘ of the Estate of Frank Eugene Gafney (“appellee”). The jury found that the decedent’s death was the result of diseases and medical conditions caused by addiction to cigarettes manufactured and distributed by appellants. We reverse due to improper comments made to the jury during appellee’s counsel’s closing argument.' Specifically, statements requesting the jury to send a message through a compensatory damage award, and…