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.
La Porte Office of Emergency Management Update
La Porte OEM sent out a tweet to business owners and managers in the area who have been impacted by the fire stating:
Energy Transfer is working with third-party contractors to contain the fire by installing necessary infrastructure. The situation is being closely monitored. The Deer Park Police Department continues to conduct its investigation.
The road closure on Spencer Highway, from Luella Boulevard to Canada Boulevard, remains in effect, and we ask that you plan accordingly. Crews are working to make this happen as soon as possible.
As a business owner, you are permitted to return to your property to check on your building and begin preparations for reopening if you have not already done so.
However, due to ongoing traffic concerns and road closures in the area, many of your customers will need to access the business from the rear instead of the usual entrance from Spencer Highway. Please ensure the safety of yourself and your staff when visiting your property and remain informed of any additional updates. We will notify you as soon as Spencer Highway reopens. If you have any questions or require further assistance, feel free to contact us. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. This message was sent to La Porte businesses along Spencer from Canada to Luella.
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.