Texas officials announce criminal investigation into Houston pipeline that burst into flaming column

Officials in a Houston suburb announced a criminal investigation on Thursday, into a fire that burned for four days and turned into a flaming column that damaged vehicles and forced evacuations in the area.

The fire broke out after an explosion occurred at a Texas pipeline on Monday. One death has been reported so far after Deer Park officials discovered human remains in an SUV that had been next to the flame. Investigators believe the fire started after the car crashed through a fence near a Walmart and hit a valve.

Officials said they have not discovered any evidence of a coordinated attack, but the investigation is still ongoing. It is not clear what caused the crash.

“This has developed into a criminal investigation and will be actively ongoing until more information is available,” the city said in a statement reported by the Associated Press.

The underground pipeline that was affected was protected by a chain link fence and barbed wire around the above-ground valve, according to the outlet. But Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said officials would look into whether they can force energy companies to use better security measures like concrete structures around the pipelines and valves.

Misty Severi is an evening news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.