Approximately 25,000 gallons of crude oil spilled during a May 22 drilling incident in East Los Angeles, according to L.A. County Public Works Director Mark Pestrella. This revised figure is nearly 10 times the 2,400 gallons originally reported by county agencies. The incident, which occurred at the intersection of Eastern and Cesar Chavez avenues, resulted in wildlife deaths, road closures, and oil entering the L.A. River.
Why the spill estimates changed
The discrepancy in volume stems from evolving assessment methods. A spokesperson for the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) stated the initial estimate of 2,400 gallons was “based on visual observations made by first responders and reported to the California Office of Emergency Services.” The updated figure of 25,000 gallons reflects a subsequent assessment conducted by the Pacific Pipeline System, the company that operates the pipeline involved in the rupture.
Regulatory violations and community impact
On June 18, the South Coast AQMD issued notices of violation to three companies for their roles in the incident: Arcadian Infracom, HP Communications, and Camarillo Drilling. According to regulators, Camarillo Drilling ruptured the pipeline during a fiber-optic installation project managed by Arcadian Infracom. In a June 1 statement, HP Communications alleged the pipeline operator failed to properly mark the line’s location prior to excavation.
The spill prompted significant community concern regarding air quality and public health. The L.A. County Department of Public Health reported that petroleum odors may have caused headaches, nausea, dizziness, and respiratory issues for residents. The Maravilla Community Advisory Committee has requested a town hall and increased access to environmental testing data, citing transparency concerns.
What may happen next
The incident remains under investigation by authorities. Because the South Coast AQMD and California Health and Safety Code prohibit emissions that cause a “nuisance or annoyance” to the public, the issued notices of violation could lead to civil penalties. If the involved companies do not reach a settlement with regulators, the matter may result in a civil lawsuit.
How to file a claim
Residents and business owners who believe they were harmed by the spill may file claims with the Pacific Pipeline System. According to the operator, compensable claims may include property damage, business interruption, loss of access, and remediation expenses. Claimants can reach the company at (877) 817-5465 to leave contact information for a representative. Additionally, the L.A. County Department of Economic Opportunity is providing guidance to those navigating the claims process.
