One missing after oil platform explosion in Louisiana

The US Coast Guard informed that it is performing search efforts for a missing man, after an explosion was reported on an oil platform in Lake Pontchartrain, near Kenner, Louisiana on Sunday evening.

One of the platform workers reported that eight people were aboard at the time of the explosion, and one person did not make it to shore. Of the seven people who made it to shore, six were taken to the hospital.

The Coast Guard and partner agencies continue to search for the missing man.

USCG Sector New Orleans launched two response vessels and a Dolphin helicopter air crew. Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, Jefferson County Parish, and St. Charles Parish also sent marine units on scene.

The Bayou Gauche Fire Department and a good Samaritan vessel are on scene fighting the fire, which has been reduced substantially, USCG said.

It is still unknown what caused the incident.

Update

The Coast Guard suspended its search for the missing man on Monday night, after having used multiple resources and assets.

    “The decision to suspend a search is never an easy one,” said Cmdr. Zac Ford. “We send our thoughts and prayers to the Morrison family and all those affected by this incident.”

The fire on the platform, which is owned by Clovelly Oil Co., was extinguished Monday morning.