The Deer Park pipeline explosion that shook the community has been officially linked to a car crash. According to a report from the Texas Railroad Commission, which oversees pipeline safety, the pipeline itself had no safety violations.
What Happened in Deer Park?
On September 16, 2024, a car driven by Jonathan McEvoy, 51, from Deer Park, crashed into the pipeline near Spencer Highway. Investigators confirmed that the crash was intentional, and McEvoy’s death was ruled a suicide. The collision caused an explosion with flames reaching up to 100 feet high.
Pipeline Safety Confirmed
The Texas Railroad Commission’s report showed that the pipeline was in good condition before the crash. The fire started when the car hit a 20-inch pipeline that spans 126 miles across six counties. The damaged part was a three-inch blowdown valve, a component that helps control the flow of gas underground. Despite the explosion, no safety violations were found, and the pipeline was working properly until the crash.
Impact on the Community
The explosion caused significant damage to nearby homes, and many families are still repairing or rebuilding their houses. Some residents, like the Rodriguez family, feel unsafe and are considering selling their homes due to the fear of another incident.
Safety Measures Taken
To prevent similar accidents, Energy Transfer, the pipeline owner, has installed large concrete barriers around the site and other similar locations. Although not required by law, these barriers are meant to protect the pipeline from future vehicle crashes and help reassure the community.
The Deer Park pipeline explosion was a tragic event caused by an intentional car crash, not pipeline failure. The investigation confirmed that the pipeline had no safety issues. Energy Transfer’s decision to install barriers is a step towards enhancing safety and preventing similar incidents in the future. As families recover and rebuild, the focus remains on ensuring the community’s safety and trust.
