Worker killed in natural gas pipeline explosion in Louisiana, authorities say

PLAQUEMINES PARISH, La. (WVUE/Gray News) - A pipeline worker who went missing after an explosion near South Pass, Louisiana, was found dead, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. The cause of the explosion is under investigation.

The Louisiana State Police Emergency Services Unit reported that the explosion took place shortly after 8 p.m. Saturday in a marshy area near Venice in Plaquemines Parish. Joshua Nichols, 40, who was believed to be working on the pipeline at the time, was killed, WVUE reports.

Police say when the explosion and fire occurred, Nichols had been operating a mud boat near a natural gas pipeline. His body was recovered by the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office on Sunday morning near the site of the explosion.

The Coast Guard’s New Orleans Sector initially received information about the explosion, triggering a joint search effort involving boat and aircrew units.

The cause of the explosion is still being investigated.

Police say the pipelines have been blocked while one remains on fire. It is said to be burning the remaining natural gas in the line. Air monitor readings were done, and there is no threat to the public, according to police.

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