Local News
Reggie McGee Identified as One of the Victims in Fatal Scaffolding Collapse at Port Arthur LNG Site in Sabine Pass
SABINE PASS, Texas — A tragic scaffolding collapse early Tuesday morning at the Port Arthur LNG construction site in Sabine Pass claimed the lives of three construction workers and left two others injured.
The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. on April 29, prompting a full shutdown of operations at the massive liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility, currently under development by Sempra Infrastructure in partnership with Bechtel Global Corporation.
According to officials, two of the workers were pronounced dead at the scene, while a third succumbed to injuries after suffering cardiac arrest and being transported to Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont.
That victim was identified as a 41-year-old man from Houston.
Officials have identified two of the deceased workers as Reggie McGee and Felipe Mendez.
The identities of the other two victims have not yet been publicly released.
The incident occurred during overnight work involving a “tank jump form system” at elevation, according to a statement issued by Bechtel, the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor for the site.
It is believed that a catastrophic failure within the scaffolding system led to a section of scaffolding—spanning approximately 8 to 12 feet across three levels—to collapse and detach, causing a trio of workers to fall.
Captain Crystal Holmes of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that only three workers fell completely to the ground.
An eyewitness account from the site described the scaffolding as now hanging at a 45-degree angle, partially disconnected but still loosely attached to the large concrete tank structure.
From a vantage point on Texas Highway 82 across the ship channel, the damaged scaffolding was visible, along with a flapping rigging strap still attached to a crane’s hook block.
This has raised concerns that a suspended load may have fallen or slipped, possibly striking the scaffold and triggering the collapse.
However, investigators have not confirmed whether the strap or any falling material played a role in the incident.
It remains uncertain whether the collapse was caused by rigging failure, structural issues, or a combination of both. It is also unknown whether the workers were wearing safety harnesses or were properly secured at the time of the fall.
Emergency services responded swiftly, including City Ambulance and personnel from Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital.
The two surviving workers who sustained injuries have since been released from medical care, according to Sempra Infrastructure.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched a formal investigation into the incident.
The U.S. Department of Labor confirmed that findings will be released upon the investigation’s conclusion. Meanwhile, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office remains the lead local agency overseeing the investigation and is working closely with Bechtel and other stakeholders.
In a joint response, both Bechtel and Sempra Infrastructure extended their condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life resulting from this incident,” Bechtel said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with the families and colleagues of those impacted.”
Sempra Infrastructure echoed those sentiments: “Our condolences go out to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as to the injured workers. We are prioritizing support for all impacted and continuing to work with local authorities.”
Bechtel immediately halted all work at the site and sent workers home following the accident. Company officials stated that operations will remain suspended while a full investigation is conducted.
Port Arthur LNG is a multibillion-dollar energy project designed to expand the United States’ capacity for liquefied natural gas exports.
Construction at the site has been ongoing for several years and involves a significant workforce and complex industrial infrastructure.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation will be deliberate and thorough.
“This will be a slow and methodical process,” said Captain Holmes. “Bechtel, the sheriff’s office, and other agencies are working together closely to determine exactly what happened.”
Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.