Did the BP Oil Well Really Blow Out in February, Instead of April?

06-17-2010 • ZeroHedge.com

The company attempted a "cement squeeze,” which involves pumping cement to seal the fissures, according to a well activity report. Over the following week the company made repeated attempts to plug cracks that were draining expensive drilling fluid, known as “mud,” into the surrounding rocks. In other words, not only is it possible that the well casing has been unstable since February, but BP apparently ignored standard drilling practices by failing to abandon the well when the natural gas began surging too violently. Sure, the rig didn't actually catch fire and sink until April, but cracks in the well and dangerous natural gas surges may mean that the well actually started blowing out much earlier. These new facts also add to the massive evidence that BP has been criminally negligent. They also add to questions about potential insider trading.