Louisiana State Police reported that they have launched an investigation following a natural gas pipeline explosion in a swampy area near Venice, Plaquemines Parish. The tragic incident, which occurred on Saturday, August 17, 2024, claimed the life of Joshua Nichols, a 40-year-old worker from Lake Charles.
Louisiana fatal accident
According to the preliminary investigation, Nichols was operating a slurry boat near the pipeline when the explosion occurred. Although the exact reasons for the accident are still under investigation, authorities have confirmed that the pipelines have been blocked and that one of the pipelines is still smoldering, burning the remaining natural gas.
The Louisiana State Police Emergency Services Unit team was deployed to the area Sunday to assess the situation and ensure there was no threat to the public. The Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office assisted in the recovery of Nichols’ body.
The Emergency Services Unit, which is responsible for the management of hazardous materials and explosive incidents throughout the state, will continue the investigation to determine the cause of the explosion and ensure that there are no additional hazards. So far, air monitor readings have not indicated danger to the community.
This incident underscores the importance of the work done by the Louisiana State Police to protect the public from hazards associated with hazardous materials and explosives. The Hazardous Materials Hotline, managed by the State Police, remains available to receive reports of emergencies involving spills or incidents of this type.
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Source: Louisiana State Police
Photo: shutterstock
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