A recent court filing has brought to light the tragic aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, with a lawsuit alleging severe health consequences and wrongful death. On June 4, 2024, Blake Martin filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana against BP Exploration & Production, Inc. and BP America Production Company.
The case revolves around Alex Martin, who worked as a clean-up worker during the aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill from July to August 2010. According to the complaint, Alex Martin was exposed to hazardous substances while performing his duties under BP's direction. The plaintiff claims that these exposures led to severe health issues, including a Gastrointestinal Neuroectodermal Tumor, which ultimately resulted in Alex Martin's death.
The lawsuit asserts that BP is at fault for the Deepwater Horizon incident and subsequent oil spill. The complaint states that "BP Defendants are responsible for any and all damages that were proximately caused as a result of this event," highlighting their negligence. The document details how crude oil released during the spill contained toxic chemicals such as benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are harmful to human health. Furthermore, it mentions that chemical dispersants like COREXIT used by BP exacerbated these dangers.
Blake Martin contends that Alex Martin's prolonged exposure to these hazardous substances while working on clean-up efforts significantly contributed to his fatal medical condition. The plaintiff seeks compensatory damages for past medical expenses, lost wages, future earning capacity loss, mental anguish, economic loss, and wrongful death. Additionally, Blake Martin requests any other relief deemed just and proper by the court.
Representing Blake Martin are attorneys Richard C. Breaux and Evan Stark from Stark & Breaux LLC. The case is being overseen by Judge Carl J. Barbier with Magistrate Judge Donna Phillips Currault under Case ID 2:24-cv-01432-CJB-DPC.