Additional Coverage:
Human Remains Found in Texas Pipeline Explosion
Authorities in Deer Park, Texas, discovered human remains inside an SUV involved in an accident that ignited a massive pipeline fire. The fire, which burned for four days, was extinguished Thursday night.
Investigators removed the white SUV from the site Thursday morning. Medical examiners later recovered and identified human remains. The identification process is ongoing.
Cause of Crash Unknown
The SUV crashed into a valve on an aboveground pipeline, causing a rupture that led to the explosion. Officials say the driver left a Walmart parking lot, drove onto a grassy area, and crashed through a fence surrounding the pipeline equipment. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
No Evidence of Terrorism
Preliminary investigations by police and the FBI have found no evidence of a terrorist attack. Energy Transfer, the pipeline owner, has called the incident an accident.
Safety Concerns
The 20-inch pipeline runs through the Houston area, carrying natural gas liquids. The valve equipment was protected by a chain-link fence topped with barbed wire. However, Energy Transfer has not yet disclosed any additional safety measures in place.
Evacuations and Damage
Nearly 1,000 homes were evacuated, and nearby schools were ordered to shelter in place. Residents were allowed to return home Wednesday evening. Some homes sustained damage from the blast, insulation debris, and water from first responders’ efforts to extinguish the fire.
Air Quality Concerns
Energy Transfer and Harris County officials have stated that air quality monitoring shows no immediate risk to individuals, despite the extensive fire and smoke that initially filled the area.