Watkins v. Kerr-McGee Oil Industries, Inc.

CULPEPPER, Judge Pro Tem.

This is a suit for damages incurred when the 40-foot trawl net of “Shrimp Boat Silver Fox” became entangled in debris on the floor of the Gulf of Mexico. Judgment was rendered against defendant, Texas Gulf, Inc., in the amount of $15,451.60 for damage to the vessel’s trawls, expenses incurred in disentangling the boat, and a loss of profits. Texas Gulf appeals. We reverse.

The issues are: (1) Can res ipsa loquitur be applied to create a presumption that it was Texas Gulf’s debris? (2) Did plaintiff prove it was Texas Gulf’s debris?

*764GENERAL FACTS

The accident occurred on…