David Scott, head of Exxon Mobil's shale oil and gas business, is seen in a police mug shot obtained by Reuters on October 8, 2023. — Picture by Montgomery County Sheriff's Office/Handout via ReutersHOUSTON, Oct 9 — The head of Exxon Mobil’s shale oil and gas business, a unit involved in merger talks with rival Pioneer Natural Resources, was arrested at a Texas hotel last week on a sexual assault charge, police said.
“We are aware of the allegations and cannot comment on a personal matter; however, we can say that this individual will not continue work responsibilities as the investigation proceeds,” said spokesperson Emily Mir said. Reuters and others on Thursday reported that Exxon was in advanced talks to acquire Pioneer in a deal that could value the shale producer at about US$60 billion. An agreement could be disclosed in coming days, Reuters said, citing three people familiar with the matter.