Christine Barrett, the widow of Jeremy Barrett, has filed a lawsuit against Teekay Shipping (USA), Inc., alleging negligence and wrongful death after her husband's tragic accident at sea. The complaint was filed on March 28, 2025, in the District Court of Harris County, Texas. The case centers around the untimely death of Jeremy Barrett, who was employed as a Jones Act seaman by Teekay Shipping.
The lawsuit narrates the events leading to Jeremy Barrett's death on November 10, 2024. At that time, he was performing his duties aboard the LSV MALLARD and STI JERMYN, vessels managed by Teekay Shipping off the coast of Texas. During a routine transfer between these vessels via an accommodation ladder—a process under Teekay's control—the ladder reportedly became unstable, causing Jeremy to fall into the water. Despite rescue efforts and CPR administration, he succumbed to his injuries on November 11, 2024. Christine Barrett contends that her husband suffered severe physical trauma and emotional distress before his death.
The plaintiff argues that Teekay Shipping failed in its duty to provide a safe working environment for Jeremy Barrett. The lawsuit accuses the company of multiple acts of negligence including inadequate maintenance and inspection of equipment, failure to provide proper supervision and training for personnel transfers, and not ensuring timely rescue operations. These failures are claimed to have directly led to Jeremy’s death. Furthermore, Christine asserts that both vessels involved were unseaworthy due to insufficient crew and faulty equipment.
Christine Barrett seeks damages under both the Jones Act and general maritime law for wrongful death and survival claims. She is asking for compensation exceeding $1 million for loss of support, companionship, mental anguish, funeral expenses, pre-death pain and suffering endured by her husband, among other damages. Additionally, she requests exemplary damages alongside pre-judgment and post-judgment interest as allowed by law.
Representing Christine Barrett are attorneys Ryan H. Zehl and Justin C. Warner from Zehl & Associates PC in Houston. The case is being heard in the 164th Judicial District Court under Case ID 2025-21190.