LIBERTY, Texas — The Liberty community is in shock and mourning after a fatal industrial accident at an oilfield site near China, Texas, claimed the life of 68-year-old Guillermo Contreras on Monday. Deputies say Contreras, a Liberty resident, was tragically run over by the trailer of an 18-wheeler while working at the site. Federal safety officials with OSHA have launched an investigation into the incident.

For months, residents living near the drilling operation have voiced concerns about the site’s impact on their homes and daily lives. “Yesterday a person died there,” said Pam Efferson, who lives nearby. “About six or seven months ago, we started feeling vibrations in our homes, which was kind of strange.” Efferson added that the noise from the site grew unbearable earlier this month. “On October 20, the noise became so loud you couldn’t have a conversation outside—it was over 80 decibels,” she said.

Other neighbors have noticed physical damage to their properties, which they believe may be linked to the drilling activity. Patricia Flores said her family returned from vacation to discover cracks in their floors, leaving them worried about the long-term effects of the site. While the noise has recently subsided, the fatal accident has intensified fears among the community. “It was heartbreaking,” Efferson said. “I don’t know Mr. Contreras personally, but I know he had a family. If something like this can happen and there’s no oversight, it’s frightening for all of us.”

Jefferson County Commissioner Brandon Willis said he has received numerous complaints from residents about noise, vibrations, and odors near the site. “These things can be typical at a well site,” Willis said, “but what’s not typical is the lack of communication with residents living right next to it.” The site is operated by Zachry Exploration, LLC, which has yet to respond to outreach from county officials or local media.

Residents are now calling for greater transparency, safety measures, and accountability to prevent further tragedies. The death of Guillermo Contreras has left the Liberty neighborhood shaken and serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by industrial operations close to residential areas.