A tragic gas explosion in Lexington, Missouri, has left one child dead and several family members seriously injured, drawing the attention of federal investigators and raising urgent questions about safety and accountability. The blast, reportedly caused by a subcontractor striking a gas line, occurred in a residential neighborhood and resulted in the complete shutdown of natural gas service to the city.
As the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) launches an investigation, families impacted by this devastating incident are left searching for answers – and potentially, justice. At Kherkher Garcia, we help victims of gas line accidents hold negligent parties accountable. Below, our natural gas explosion attorneys explore the hazards of gas line work, the role of subcontractors, the types of incidents and injuries that can occur, and when legal action may be appropriate.
Tragic Missouri Gas Explosion
A tragic gas explosion in Lexington, Missouri, is now under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The explosion claimed the life of a 5-year-old boy and seriously injured his father and sister. According to city officials, a subcontractor accidentally struck a gas line, triggering the deadly blast at a home near 18th Street.
The surviving family members were hospitalized with severe burns, one of whom was airlifted with burns covering 95% of their body. In response to the incident, Liberty Gas shut off service to the entire city. Residents will be notified once service is restored.
The NTSB confirmed its Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Division is leading the investigation. This division handles incidents involving the release of hazardous substances, including those resulting in fatalities, major property damage, or threats to public safety. It may take weeks to determine the full extent of the damage and any additional impacts.
The Hazards of Gas Line Work
Natural gas is colorless, odorless, and highly flammable. It’s commonly used for heating, cooking, and powering equipment in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities. Because it is under pressure, a rupture or leak can release a large volume of gas in a short period of time – creating an extremely dangerous environment.
Some of the primary hazards associated with gas line work include:
Explosions
Gas leaks can quickly escalate into explosions if the gas encounters an ignition source such as a spark, open flame, or electrical current. These explosions can demolish structures, cause widespread injuries, and even result in fatalities.
Fires
Leaked gas that does not immediately explode may ignite and create sustained fires. These fires can spread rapidly and burn at extremely high temperatures, increasing the risk of severe burns and property loss.
Asphyxiation and Toxic Exposure
In enclosed spaces, natural gas displaces oxygen and can lead to asphyxiation. Additionally, additives used to odorize gas (like mercaptan) and byproducts of combustion can be toxic if inhaled in large quantities.
Underground Line Strikes
Gas lines are often buried underground. Excavation, drilling, or trenching without proper line locating can lead to accidental strikes. These are a leading cause of gas-related incidents in construction and utility work.
Who Works on Gas Lines? Understanding the Role of Subcontractors
Many gas line projects involve multiple layers of contractors and subcontractors. Subcontractors may be hired to install, repair, inspect, or locate gas lines. Their responsibilities vary widely depending on the scope of work, including:
- Excavation crews digging near or around pipelines
- Directional drilling teams boring underground for new utility lines
- Utility marking companies responsible for locating and flagging existing lines
- Pipeline maintenance contractors inspecting or replacing aging infrastructure
- Construction subcontractors performing grading, foundation, or utility tie-ins
Because subcontractors are often brought in for specialized tasks, communication and coordination are critical. If a subcontractor fails to follow safety protocols, doesn’t properly notify utility companies, or neglects to use the appropriate detection equipment, the risk of a gas-related accident skyrockets.
Common Types of Gas Line Incidents
Some of the factors that often lead to gas line incidents include:
Struck Lines During Excavation
One of the most common causes of gas accidents is when an excavation crew strikes a buried line. This can happen when:
- Utility markings are inaccurate or missing
- Crews dig without verifying line depth
- Lines are damaged by backhoes, augers, or other machinery
Faulty Installation
Poor line installation, defective materials, or improper connections can create long-term hazards. Leaks may develop slowly and go undetected until it’s too late.
Neglected Maintenance
Aging infrastructure and inadequate maintenance increase the risk of gas leaks. Subcontractors responsible for maintenance may miss corrosion, cracks, or faulty valves.
Improper Line Locating
Before digging, contractors must contact utility locating services (e.g., 811) to mark underground lines. If the markings are incorrect or missing, workers may unknowingly strike a live line.
Uncontrolled Gas Releases
Sometimes, crews may cause a leak but fail to contain or report it promptly. Uncontrolled gas can build up and result in delayed explosions or fires—often when residents or workers return to the site.
Injuries Associated With Gas Line Incidents
Gas line explosions and fires can cause catastrophic injuries, many of which have lasting consequences:
- Burn Injuries: Flash burns, deep tissue burns, and full-body burns are common in gas explosions. Victims may require extensive skin grafts, long-term hospitalization, and rehabilitation.
- Blast Trauma: The force of an explosion can cause blunt force trauma, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and internal organ damage.
- Inhalation Injuries: Breathing in gases, smoke, or toxic substances can cause severe respiratory damage and long-term lung complications.
- Psychological Trauma: Survivors often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression – particularly when they’ve lost loved ones or experienced life-altering injuries.
- Wrongful Death: When explosions are fatal, families may be left to cope with unimaginable grief and financial hardship.
When Is Legal Action Appropriate after a Gas Line Incident?
Victims of gas line accidents often want to know whether they have legal grounds for a claim. In many cases, the answer is yes – especially when negligence is involved. You may be entitled to pursue legal action if your accident involved:
Negligent Subcontractors
Subcontractors are legally obligated to follow industry safety standards. If they fail to mark lines, ignore permit requirements, or cut corners during installation or maintenance, they may be held liable.
Utility Company Failures
Gas providers must maintain their infrastructure and ensure prompt responses to leaks or line strikes. If they failed to shut off gas, issue warnings, or fix known problems, they may share responsibility.
Faulty Equipment or Materials
Sometimes the explosion results from a defective valve, pipeline, or other gas line component. In these cases, a product liability claim may be filed against the manufacturer.
Lack of Coordination Between Contractors
Major construction projects often involve multiple teams. A lack of communication between general contractors, subcontractors, and utility companies can create dangerous gaps in oversight.
What Damages Can Victims Recover?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a gas line incident, a successful legal claim may allow you to recover damages such as:
- Medical expenses (hospitalization, surgery, rehab)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death and funeral costs (in fatal cases)
These cases are often complex and may involve multiple liable parties. An experienced attorney can help investigate the accident, identify all sources of liability, and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Kherkher Garcia Can Help
At Kherkher Garcia, our attorneys have extensive experience handling cases involving gas explosions, utility accidents, and catastrophic injuries. We work with industry experts to investigate what went wrong, who was responsible, and how victims can be made whole.
We’re not afraid to take on major corporations, utility providers, or negligent contractors. If you were injured, or lost a loved one, due to a gas line accident, we are here to help you hold those at fault accountable.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
Gas line accidents are preventable tragedies. If your life has been turned upside down by an explosion, fire, or gas-related incident, you may be entitled to justice and compensation. Don’t face this battle alone.
Contact Kherkher Garcia today for a free confidential consultation. We will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you take the next step toward recovery. Get started right away by calling us at 713-333-1030. You can also reach out to us online via our contact form.
