Texas Agency Investigated Oil Tank for Leak Prior to Deadly Blast

Texas’ oil and gas regulator had been investigating an oil tank site for suspected leaks before it recently exploded, critically injuring a worker.

The Bryan Eagle reports Sunday that the Texas Railroad Commission had been inspecting the site since March.

Earlier this month, 25-year-old Cameron McDonald was critically injured when the tanks blew up as he used a torch to separate a catwalk from one of the tanks.

Railroad Commission records show inspectors found less than 20 barrels of oil and water leaking from a tank. They also found well equipment in disrepair.

Finaly Resources, a company based in Long Beach, California, was notified of the problems.

On June 9, the Texas agency warned that if the problems weren’t fixed the company could be fined up to $10,000.