EDMONTON, Alta. — A trucker is in critical condition in hospital after being severely burned while loading petroleum into his truck.

David Goodwin, 49, suffered first, second and third degree burns to up to 35 per cent of his body when the accident occurred at the Gibson Petroleum tank farm 205 kilometres southeast of Edmonton.

Another trucker pulled Goodwin from the fire before he was airlifted to the University of Alberta hospital.

A stop-work order has been issued as the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety department investigates the case.

Goodwin was loading condensates at the time of the accident – a liquid that thins petroleum so it can flow better.

Goodwin’s cousin, Brad Goodwin, told local media that the family is “rallying together.” He adds “They’re a pretty close knit family. They’re going to pull through it.”