James Gowenlock, a Prescott-area plumber and local Pokémon teacher known as the "Team Rocket Professor," is in critical condition after a gas-line explosion at a jobsite near Mayer left him with severe burns. Family members say the blast caused third-degree burns over roughly half his body and left him with major motor-function problems. He and a co‑worker were flown to a Phoenix burn unit, and relatives say he is facing multiple surgeries and skin grafts.
Gowenlock's sister, Sarah McGee, told Arizona's Family the crew believed the gas line had been shut off before they started work, but that "something was not shut off that was supposed to be." She described her brother as a caring uncle and a fixture in the Prescott community who teaches kids how to play Pokémon at a local card shop, adding that he was "trying really hard to be tough" as doctors worked to stabilize him.
The family has launched a GoFundMe to help cover medical bills and basic living expenses. The online fundraiser lists organizers and shows several thousand dollars raised toward a $7,000 goal. Organizers say Gowenlock's injuries have left him unable to work and that immediate help is needed for rent, travel and caregiver support. A separate fundraiser is also underway to help the injured co‑worker.
What family says happened
According to Arizona's Family, relatives got the call after a gas-line explosion at a jobsite near Mayer where crew members thought the line had been shut off. Family members say a co‑worker pulled Gowenlock away from the flames and that both men managed to reach help before being airlifted to Phoenix for specialized treatment. At the time the family spoke publicly, no official investigation findings had been released.
Treatment in Phoenix and what to expect
Severe thermal burns on the scale relatives describe typically require repeated surgeries, skin grafts and long-term rehabilitation. The Diane & Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center at Valleywise Health, Arizona's nationally verified burn center, treats complex cases from across the state and outlines a multidisciplinary approach that includes surgical reconstruction, wound and infection management and intensive rehab services. Gowenlock's family says he is already facing surgical procedures and a lengthy recovery as medical teams work to keep his condition stable.
How these blasts happen and worker safety
Federal pipeline data and industry reports show that excavation and other third‑party damage rank among the leading causes of serious pipeline incidents, a constant risk anywhere buried utilities run near construction sites. The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration tracks incident causes and trends in its public pipeline safety data. Utilities and trade groups urge anyone planning excavation work to call the national 811 "Call Before You Dig" number first, a step the American Gas Association highlights so underground lines can be marked and the odds of a strike or explosion are reduced.
How to help
Gowenlock's family is asking for privacy while they focus on his recovery. Those who want to help can donate through the family’s GoFundMe. Relatives say messages and support from the community have been a steady source of comfort as medical bills climb and the length of his recovery remains uncertain. This story will be updated if officials or the hospital release additional details.
