Boat owner sued after offshore worker dies from injuries allegedly sustained on vessel

GRETNA – The mother of a man who died from injuries allegedly suffered as a crew member aboard a commercial boat is suing.

Cheryl Dufrene filed suit against Abe’s Boat Rentals in the 24th Judicial District Court on Jan. 17.

Dufrene claims that her son Devin was being transported aboard a vessel owned by Abe’s Boat Rentals to an offshore oil platform when an incident occurred involving improper crew conduct and violence that resulted in him receiving severe injuries that were then neglected by his fellow crewmates. The plaintiff alleges that when the crew arrived at the offshore oil platform a paramedic saw to her son’s injuries, however Devin later died. Dufrene claims that her son’s death is due to his injuries were not addressed in a timely manner and his evacuation being delayed.

The defendant is accused of wanton and willful disregard for crew members, failing to provide adequate medical attention, failing to evacuate in a timely manner and wrongful death.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain and suffering, emotional pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of love and affection, emotional anxiety, loss of support and loss of services.

Dufrene is represented by Jerald P. Block of the Thibodaux-based Block Law Firm APLC.

The case has been assigned to Division G Judge Robert A. Pitre Jr.

Case no. 734-744.