July 25, 2013
The operators of a natural gas rig that burned and partially collapsed off the Louisiana coast in the Gulf of Mexico are expected to ask federal regulators for approval to drill a relief well to cut off gas fueling the fire, according to the federal Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement.
No one was injured in the fire, which broke out Tuesday at the site in 154 feet of water 60 miles southwest of Grand Isle, Louisiana. It was still burning as of Wednesday night.
While the rig remained standing, parts of the structure above water had collapsed as a result of the intense heat, officials said.