Oil Industry Workers File Class Action Lawsuit Against Plains All American Pipeline

Richard Lilygren, of Santa Maria, operated oil platforms Hildago and Harvest until Freeport-McmoRan shut them down and terminated his employment July 13.

Lilygren blames the Refugio oil spill in May, caused by a ruptured onshore pipeline owned by Plains All American Pipeline.

Plains publicized a claims number, but denied Lilygren’s claim.

Now, Lilygren is a plaintiff in a class action lawsuit filed by Cappello and Noel LLP of Santa Barbara.

Barry Cappello said his client is one of about 100 workers impacted by the 142, 000 gallon spill.

Cappello said lawyers will work to consolidate the lawsuits before heading to Federal Court in Los Angeles.

The high-profile attorney, who worked for the city of Santa Barbara during the 1969 oil spill, would not say how much money the lawsuit seeks in damages.

The complaint is demanding a jury trial.

Plains All-American Pipeline communications manager Meredith Mathews said the Texas-based company would not comment on pending litigation.