Oilfield Worker Killed in Fracking Accident in Blaine County

The oilfield accident that killed a 36-year old worker on Tuesday in Blaine county remains under investigation by the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office.

Undersheriff David Robertson indicated it happened at a Devon Energy well site located along County Road 2520 and a quarter mile south of County Road 840 west of Watonga.

It occurred as crews were fracking a well and reports indicated a fitting failed in the first phase and struck a worker in the chest. He was rushed to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. His name has not been released. The first phase was just underway and hit 2,400 pounds of pressure when the fitting failed and debris hit two workers. Both were rushed to a hospital.

The Sheriff’s office indicated another worker was injured and both men were employees of Universal Pressure Pumping, a firm headquartered in Texas but with an office in El Reno. The company has been in operation for more than 30 years and describes itself as a “premier source for hydraulic fracturing, cementing, nitrogen and acidizing services for reservoir enhancement.

The company says it provides well services primarily in Texas and the Mid-Continent and Appalachian regions.

“Devon is coordinating with its contractor and the appropriate government authorities in investigating the incident,” said John Porretto, director of corporate communications for Devon Energy. “Devon wishes to extend its sincere condolences to the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time.”