Bechtel has suspended all work on his Port Arthur LNG export terminal project after three workers were killed in a fall accident on April 29 in Sabine Pass, Texas.
Research officials reported that workers dropped from about 65 to 85 feet after “some kind of mishap” caused a layer of scaffolding connected to a concrete tank to fail, sending several workers to the edge. The victims were identified as Felix Jose Lopez, 42; Felipe Mendez, 25; and Reginald Magee, 41. López and Mendez declared themselves dead at the scene. Magee was taken to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.
According to investigative police, two other workers involved in the accident were attended by their injuries and are expected to be completely recovered.
“Not all employees disembarked on the ground. Two of them were able to keep up to date, but all the wounds suffered,” said Captain Crystal Holmes from Jefferson’s County’s County Sheriff’s office.
In a statement sent to Enr, Bechtel said that all the work on the site was stopped immediately after the incident, and a work stop will remain when officials investigate the cause of the incident.
“We have sent all craft professionals at home to be with their families during this difficult time. We are fully collaborating with local authorities as research continues and we launched our own internal review. Support those affected and ensure that the security of the site is still our most important priorities.” said the company.
Holmes added that Jefferson County and the U.S. Occupational Health and Occupational Safety Administration (OSHA) have opened an investigation into the incident and will publish the findings after the investigation is completed.
“It is a tragedy for families and those involved, and not only for victims, but for employees who were here and the family they were here,” said Holmes.
Bechtel added, “Our thoughts are with families and our colleagues affected by this tragic incident.”
Bechtel is the main contractor to the 13 billion dollars project by virtue of their EPC agreement With SemPra infrastructure based in San Diego. The project, which will allow the export of natural gas, includes natural gas settlement trains, LNG storage tanks and marine installations.
In a statement, Sempra added: “Our condolences are aimed at the families of those who lost their lives, as well as those who are injured.”
Bechtel took the 14th place on the list of 500 best design companies of 2025 Enr.
