The US Coast Guard reported that at approximately 10:30 Thursday morning*, an oil and gas platform operated by Texas-based Mariner Energy exploded west of the BP oil spill, approximately 90 miles south of Vermilion Bay. Thirteen people went overboard, but all are alive and accounted for, according to the US Coast Guard.
Mariner Energy's Vermilion Rig 380 exploded, and according to a Bloomberg report, U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Casey Ranel said there were seven helicopters, two airplanes and four cutters in the area.
According to the US Coast Guard, the 13 people were in the water near an oil platform on fire. All 13 people were wearing immersion suits.
"The 13 people in the water were picked up by the OSV Crystal Clear and taken to another platform. Coast Guard helicopters are being utilized to transport the rescued to Terrebonne General Hospital," the Coast Guard stated in a press release up today.
Currently responding are:
- Five MH-65C rescue helicopters and cres from Coast Guard Air Station New Orleans;
- Four MH-65C rescue helicopters and crews from Coast Guard Air Station Houston;
- HC-144 Guardian aircraft from Coast Guard Aviation Training Center Mobile, Ala;
- Coast Guard Cutters Decisive, Skipjack, Manta and Harry Claiborne.
This is breaking news, though, so the story should be followed throughout the day for updates here.
To view video footage click here.
* Article updated 9-3
Comments
We all knew this was going to happen again, Now What? Are going to stand up or lay down?
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