On March 4, two men were killed during a supposed industrial accident at an oil drilling site in southern New Mexico.
The two old field workers—Nicholas D. Gerberich of Roswell, who was 28 years old, and Storm Hutchins of Carlsbad, aged 24—were found lying on the ground unconscious. Shortly after, they were pronounced dead at the scene.
The accident occurred at a Concho Resources (a petroleum and natural gas company) lease location in the Permian Basin. The cause of the accident has yet to be determined as no one else was nearby, though several factors could have contributed to their tragic passing.
The Dangers of Oilfield Work
Oilfield accidents are distressingly common. The work comes with many risks, as heavy moving machinery, poisonous gasses, and other hazards are constantly present on the scene.
Common oilfield accidents include:
- Explosions and fires, often caused by extreme pressure from burning vapors or igniting machinery sparks
- Equipment failures, such as busted pipe or malfunctioning machinery
- Insufficient training, which may lead to a worker making a fatal mistake
- Truck and vehicle accidents
- Slip and falls
New Mexico’s oil boom has brought immense population and revenue growth to our state. New Mexico recently passed Alaska, California, and Oklahoma in oil production and is now the third-largest oil-producing state in the U.S. Yet, even though towns in the Permian Basin like Hobbs and Carlsbad have grown exponentially, so have the dangers that come with oilfield drilling.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an oilfield accident in the Hobbs/Roswell area, contact us today. Our experienced and compassionate Albuquerque workers’ compensation attorney can help you receive the compensation and benefits you deserve.