Bakersfield Oil Spill Exposes Residents to Contamination
BAKERSFIELD, CA (June 9, 2024) — It’s the fourth day of a significant water crisis in Bakersfield, as residents and businesses face a “No-Drink” and “No-Use” order due to oil contamination in the city’s water supply. The focus of the ongoing investigation is Griffin Resources LLC, a local oil producer linked to the spill, which has affected 42 businesses since being discovered early Tuesday afternoon.
Melissa Gilkes-Smith, COO of the Heart Vascular and Leg Center, detailed the immediate measures taken to prevent the use of contaminated water, including signage and physically restricting access to sinks. The contamination was traced back to a crude oil storage facility owned by Griffin Resources at 5401 Office Park Drive.
Griffin Resources reportedly has a history of non-compliance with state regulations, failing to address violations cited over the past seven years that could endanger public health and the environment. Just this April, the company received emergency orders related to substandard repairs and unsafe practices near residential areas, yet has failed to comply.
As California Water Service Company (Cal Water) works to flush the system and collect water samples, the community awaits the first water quality results, expected late Friday to early Saturday. Yvonne Kingman, director of corporate communication at Cal Water, stated to local news that multiple rounds of acceptable test results are needed before the advisory can be lifted, with no current estimate for when water service will be fully restored.
For those affected by this Bakersfield oil spill or similar situations, RTM Law Firm offers expert legal advice and representation. Our team is prepared to help victims who have gotten seriously ill or injured due to environmental negligence. Contact us for more information on how we can assist.