Context:

A fatal explosion in Lexington, Missouri, occurred when a subcontractor inadvertently drilled into an unmarked underground gas main while installing fiber optic cables. The incident resulted in one death and injuries to two others, as it leveled a home and damaged two neighboring houses. Although Liberty Utilities had marked some lines prior to the digging, the critical uncapped gas main was overlooked, leading to the disaster. Despite realizing the gas leak and contacting emergency services, only one nearby business was evacuated, leaving the affected homes vulnerable. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the evacuation procedures and the utility's emergency response, while Liberty Utilities has expressed their commitment to aiding those impacted by the tragedy.

Dive Deeper:

• The explosion was triggered when a subcontractor's drill penetrated an unmarked gas main, causing a leak that eventually led to the explosion, which destroyed one home and damaged two others.

• Liberty Utilities had attempted to mark the underground lines before the subcontractor commenced work, but the section of the gas main involved in the explosion was not identified, leading to the incident.

• The subcontractor's crew detected the presence of natural gas after hitting the gas main and promptly contacted emergency services, yet only a business located 15 feet away was evacuated, while homes further away were not.

• The National Transportation Safety Board is scrutinizing the response from Liberty Utilities, particularly focusing on their evacuation protocols, repair history, and record-keeping practices in relation to the incident.

• Liberty Utilities has issued a statement acknowledging the tragedy, expressing limitations on what they can disclose due to federal regulations, but affirming their commitment to assisting those affected and supporting recovery efforts.

• The incident has drawn attention to potential gaps in safety and emergency preparedness, highlighting the critical importance of accurately marking underground utilities to prevent such disasters.

• The explosion not only caused significant structural damage but also raised questions about the adequacy of current safety measures and the responsibilities of utilities in preventing such accidents.