LIVE UPDATES: Human remains found in SUV after La Porte pipeline fire
LA PORTE - Authorities have recovered human remains in an SUV involved in the La Porte pipeline explosion earlier this week. This discovery follows four days of intense firefighting efforts to control the blaze.
Vehicle Towed and Crime Scene Established
Officials began towing the vehicle away from the site after moving it from the fire's edge. The fire, which ignited Monday morning, is now subsiding, but there are still unanswered questions about how the SUV ended up inside the fenced area and whether anyone remains in the vehicle.
The Deer Park Police Department and the Harris County Medical Examiner are gearing up for the next steps in their criminal investigation. They’re asking everyone to stay clear of the area to avoid disrupting their work. A crime scene has been established around the SUV, suggesting that authorities are treating the situation with heightened scrutiny. There are no new updates on the victim or the incident’s status at this time. The investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing.
Latest statement from Energy Transfer as of 10:20 a.m.
As of 10:30am, the fire continues to safely burn itself out as the flame diminished overnight. There has been no impact to air quality. We will continue to monitor air quality levels. The installation of specialized pipeline isolation equipment on either side of the damaged area is in process. This equipment will allow us to accelerate the removal and replacement of the damaged components. Impacted homeowners who were unable to return to their homes last night were provided lodging at area hotels. The investigation into the cause of the damage to our pipeline is underway by local law enforcement agencies. We understand that the car has been removed from the site. We are working closely with local authorities to manage the response and are cooperating in the investigation. Any impacted homeowner needing assistance can call 855-430-4491 or send an email to laporteresponse@energytransfer.com. You will be asked to provide your name, phone number, address and what assistance you are needing. We will provide updates as new information becomes available.
Road Closures and Store Opening
Spencer Highway is still closed from Luella Boulevard to Pasadena/Canada Boulevard, but Walmart is set to open at its regular time today at 10:00 AM.
Air Quality Monitoring
For those concerned about air quality, monitoring is underway at Heritage and College Park Elementary Schools.
We will provide further updates as new information becomes available.