Scaffold Tower Safety Fatality File

Scaffold Tower Collapse Claims Three Lives at Texas LNG Site

In April 2025, a catastrophic scaffold tower collapse at the Port Arthur LNG construction site in Texas resulted in the deaths of three workers—Felipe Mendez, Felix Lopez, and Reginald Magee—and injuries to two others. The incident occurred when a crane load allegedly failed and struck the scaffolding upon which the men were working, causing it to collapse. The workers fell approximately 65 to 85 feet, leading to immediate fatalities and serious injuries.

Investigations revealed that the workers were following protocol and had no role in causing the accident. The families of the deceased have filed wrongful death lawsuits against ConocoPhillips, Port Arthur LNG, and Sempra, alleging negligence and preventable safety failures. Bechtel, the construction contractor, has suspended work at the site and is cooperating with investigative agencies.

This tragedy underscores the critical importance of strict adherence to scaffold tower safety protocols, including proper load management and equipment inspection. Ensuring the structural integrity of scaffolding and the safe operation of cranes is essential to prevent such devastating incidents.

Source: People.com