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Five workers were hospitalized following a significant explosion at an oil well site operated by HWN Energy Ltd., just north of Cochrane on Monday afternoon.
The incident occurred around 2 p.m. near Highway 567 and Range Road 40, where the crew was drilling when they are believed to have struck a gas pocket, triggering the explosion. Three of the workers sustained life-threatening injuries, while the other two are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Firefighters from both Springbank and Bearspaw responded to the scene, working to contain the fire. Cpl. Gina Slaney of the RCMP confirmed the explosion and injuries, adding that the fire is expected to burn for at least a week. However, the area is isolated, and no evacuations have been ordered.
HWN Energy Ltd. issued a statement confirming a "well control incident" at the site, located about eight kilometres north of Cochrane, and noted that the five injured individuals were contractors.
As the investigation continues, authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the fire remains contained and does not pose further risks.
In an exclusive video sent to CochraneNow, you can see workers running towards a muster point moments after an alarm went off on-site.