Massive Gas Pipeline Explosion in Northern Illinois Kills Two

SEATTLE (Oil Monster): The massive explosion and fire at a natural gas pipeline owned by Kinder Morgan Inc. Tuesday, December 5 morning has killed two people and left another two seriously injured.

The incident occurred around 9 AM. According to firefighters, the incident happened while the workers were trying to install field tile in the area. Upon one tractor getting stuck, they tried to pull it out using a second tractor. Unfortunately, the tractor struck the underground pipeline and cracked it, thereby resulting in a deadly explosion.

Firefighters from Lee County Emergency attended to the scene. Investigators from the Illinois State Fire Marshal's Office also reported to the scene.

Two men were declared dead at the scene itself. Another two were taken by neighbors to a nearby local hospital from where they were shifted by medical helicopter to a Rockford hospital. As per hospital authorities, the condition of one of them is critical whereas the other is in stable condition. The names of the victims or injured were not disclosed to the public.

Heavy winds helped to blow the flames away from nearby homes, avoiding further mishap. The incident did not lead to additional residential evacuations. The roads in the area including State Highway 38 remained closed. Eye witnesses noted that black smoke and flames shot up to a height of around 150 feet. The fuel supply through the pipeline was cut off immediately and the fire was brought under control around 1.15 PM.

According to Kinder Morgan, the exploded pipeline was a 50 cm cross-country transmission pipe, which is typically buried 4-5 feet underground. The company also stated that there were no damages to a nearby 24” gas pipeline.