Mobile, AL (August 12, 2025) – Two men died and another was hospitalized following a workplace accident on Monday morning, August 11, at a construction site in the Princeton Woods subdivision. The incident happened around 7:15 a.m. as three contractors worked in a manhole to repair a sewer bypass on Williamstowne Curve.
The victims have been identified as 31-year-old Garrett Robertson and 50-year-old Herber Rivas. Both men were overcome by what appeared to be toxic gas while running sewer lines underground. A third worker entered the manhole but became disoriented and managed to escape. He was taken to a local hospital and is currently receiving treatment.
Mobile Fire and Rescue responded promptly and launched a confined space rescue. Fire Chief Barry Glisson said that the oxygen levels inside the 4-foot by 4-foot manhole were dangerously low, causing the workers to lose consciousness. The rescue team found one man at the bottom of the hole and another on top of him. Despite their efforts, Robertson and Rivas were pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital.
Neighbors watched anxiously as technical teams worked for nearly three hours to retrieve the men. The exact cause of the oxygen displacement is still under investigation. Authorities are continuing to gather information about this tragic incident.
We send our deepest sympathies and wishes for recovery to the injured worker and the families affected by this event.
Sewer Line Accidents and Workplace Safety in Mobile, AL
Sewer line work is essential but comes with serious risks, especially when workers enter confined spaces such as manholes. These environments often
Confined space accidents can happen quickly, sometimes without warning. Gas buildup or oxygen displacement can cause workers to become dizzy, disoriented, or lose consciousness, as seen in the recent Mobile incident. Proper ventilation, gas monitoring, and safety protocols are critical to prevent these tragedies.
Despite regulations, accidents still occur due to equipment failure, human error, or unexpected conditions underground. When a worker is injured or killed in a sewer line accident, families may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. This compensation can cover medical expenses, lost income, funeral costs, and pain and suffering.
Personal injury lawyers with experience in workplace accidents can help families navigate complex claims against employers or third parties. They can investigate whether safety rules were followed and hold negligent parties accountable. In some cases, workers’ compensation may provide benefits, but legal action might be necessary for full recovery.
Safety training and awareness are vital to reduce risks in confined space work. Employers must ensure that workers have proper protective gear and that rescue plans are ready before entry. Mobile’s recent tragedy highlights how quickly conditions can become life-threatening.
If you or a loved one was injured in a sewer line or confined space accident in Mobile or anywhere in Alabama, don’t wait to get help. Call Maloney-Lyons today at 251-225-6105 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
