[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 131 (Thursday, August 1, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Page S5279]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        LINCOLN COUNTY GAS LEAK

  Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, my office and I are closely monitoring 
a significant explosion of a natural gas transmission pipeline early 
this morning near Danville, in my home State of Kentucky.
  As of this morning, one fatality and five more injuries have been 
reported, and others may be unaccounted for. We hope and pray that 
these figures do not increase. Several structures have been damaged or 
destroyed.
  The Lincoln County emergency manager reported: ``The part of the area 
that has been compromised, there is just nothing left.'' The fiery 
explosion was so large that it was picked up by weather satellites, and 
witnesses report the smoke can be seen from my hometown of Louisville, 
almost 70 miles away.
  Obviously, the investigation is just beginning. My staff and I will 
continue to stay on top of this and be a resource for everyone 
affected.
  This morning, our prayers are with the families whom this disaster 
has touched, and our gratitude is with all the first responders who 
rushed toward the towering flames to protect their neighbors and 
communities.

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