Jared Waters Injured in Yavapai County Gas Explosion Accident

Jared Waters Seriously Injured in Work Accident After Gas Explosion at Business Near Mayer

MAYER, ARIZONA (April 22, 2026) – A plumber identified as Jared Waters was seriously injured in a gas explosion accident at a worksite near Mayer.

Yavapai County officials are saying that the accident took place this past Friday. Workers believed that gas lines at the property were turned off. But something appears to have gone catastrophically wrong.

An unexpected spark in the environment is suspected to have triggered a major gas explosion. Jared Waters and another worker sustained serious injuries in the blast.

Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the accident to help all of the victims. Both Jared Waters and the other worker were airlifted to a burn center in Phoenix to receive treatment.

You can help support Jared Waters as he continues to recover through GoFundMe.

According to the online fundraiser, “Jared is a single dad to a young daughter who depends on him for everything. With Jared being unable to work while he heals, everyday expenses like rent, bills, childcare, and food as well as the maintenance medical care costs once he leaves the hospital will quickly become overwhelming. The stress of recovery will only add to the worry of how to best support his daughter during this difficult time.”

Liability for Arizona Gas Explosion Accidents

Employers in Arizona have a legal obligation to maintain worksites in a reasonably safe condition. When employers have actual or constructive notice of a dangerous condition on their premises, they must take action. Safety precautions are especially important at any worksite that is making use of natural gas or other potentially flammable materials. What follows are a few of the ways that employers may have acted negligently and potentially contributed to a gas explosion.

• Gas Lines: An employer may have failed to repair faulty gas lines.
• Ventilation: An employer may have failed to provide adequate ventilation in enclosed areas where gas can accumulate.
• Improper Storage: An employer may fail to store gas or other combustible materials in a safe location.
• Training: An employer may fail to provide workers with adequate training to recognize gas hazards.

When an employee is injured in Arizona, they will typically have recourse through the workers’ compensation system. In addition to workers’ compensation, an injured employee may also be able to receive benefits through a third-party liability claim. There could be several sources of third-party liability for any workplace accident. In particular, a gas utility company could be liable for an explosion if they failed to properly maintain their own gas lines. A large portion of gas explosion accidents involve some degree of negligence on the part of gas companies.

Steps to Take After Gas Explosion Accidents

Gas explosions can leave victims with costly injuries and serious trauma. According to StatPearls, “Whether through accidental or intentional acts, explosions can cause serious injury and death. Explosions may inflict injuries on many people at the same time, resulting in high levels of mortality and morbidity.” Victims of gas explosions should take several measures to protect their health and legal rights.

• Medical Support: Victims of gas explosions should seek medical support as early as possible. Even seemingly minor injuries can turn out to be much more serious.
• Evidence Preservation: All of the evidence associated with the explosion should be collected and preserved. Determining the source of the blast can help reveal potentially liable parties.
• Eyewitnesses: Any person who may have witnessed the incident should be interviewed as early as possible, while their memories are still fresh.
• OSHA Investigation: Any accident report created by OSHA should be carefully examined. These reports can be extremely helpful if injury claims are ever litigated.
• Independent Review: Victims of gas explosion accidents should carefully consider their legal options with a team experienced in tort claims.

Gas explosions can be absolutely devastating for all involved and routinely cause severe burn injuries. According to Paradigm, “Burns are some of the most severe and painful injuries a person can endure. […] The road to recover for those with burn injuries can be long and arduous. Putting the physical and psychological pain aside, the financial burden is immense. Paradigm Outcomes, a case management company, estimates that, in complicated cases, severe burns can cost up to $10 million to treat successfully.” Any person injured in a gas explosion may be able to pursue damages through a personal injury claim.

Investigating Arizona Gas Explosion Accidents

We at The Law Offices of John Phebus extend our best wishes to Jared Waters and his coworker as they continue to recover from this tragic accident. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to OSHA. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other accidents like this. There needs to be a thorough investigation for the sake of all affected.

Have you or a loved one been injured in an Arizona gas explosion accident? You may be able to receive compensation for all of the ways that the accident has negatively impacted your life. Our team of workplace safety advocates is here for you. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected through skilled advocacy. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You are always welcome to reach out to us anytime at (623) 267-9283.