Hyperloop One Execs Sue, Claiming Abuse

One of the co-founders of Hyperloop One, a speed train startup, as well as several former executives, are suing the company for harassment and wrongful termination. Co-founder Brogan BamBrogan claims breach of contract, defamation, unlawful infliction of emotional distress and assault in his filing. BamBrogan says that while he worked at Hyperloop, the company’s CFO Afshin Pishevar—brother of his fellow founder, Shervin—placed a noose on his office chair. That inspired BamBrogan to seek a restraining order. The company was founded after entrepreneur Elon Musk suggested that a very-high-speed train could be built between San Francisco and Los Angeles. The firm announced an $80 million investment round, including GE Ventures, in May. The lawyer for Hyperloop called the lawsuit “unfortunate and delusional.” He added: “These employees tried to stage a coup and failed. They knew that the company was aware of their actions, and today’s lawsuit is their pre-emptive strike.”