Criss said Browne's media interviews and statements to BP employees indicate he has a "unique and superior" knowledge about factors that could have contributed to the explosion.
"We've got statements that were beyond the company line," Criss said regarding Browne's remarks. "I'm not convinced he doesn't want to come here and tell the world."
BP attorneys argued that Browne did not possess such knowledge. They also said the request for a deposition violated an agreement between attorneys in the case that Browne would be deposed if he was the only person with information attorneys are seeking.
A deposition is a sworn statement, often videotaped, based on an extensive interview with attorneys in a case.
The Texas City blast occurred when faulty sensors did not warn of gathering vapors near the isomerization unit, which boosts the level of octane in gasoline. The vapors ignited as the unit was starting up. The blast in Texas City, about 40 miles southeast of Houston, also injured 170 people.
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board, one of several agencies investigating the blast, concluded the unit had a history of problems and lacked equipment that could have prevented or minimized the accident.
