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Construction Accident Triggers Oil Pipeline Spill in Collin County

Photo by Mark Haslett, KETR
Credit Photo by Mark Haslett, KETR
The site of Monday's oil pipeline spill in Collin County.

A construction accident in northeastern Collin County Monday spewed at least 1,400 barrels of crude oil. Cleanup efforts Tuesday were still underway at the site on State Highway 121, between Trenton and Melissa, just outside the unincorporated town of Desert.

According to the Collin County Sheriff’s Department, a private contractor working with the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) on the road-widening project on S.H. 121 accidentally cut through an existing pipeline that transports oil between Cushing, Okla., and the Gulf Coast. The pipeline is part of the Seaway Pipeline System. The pipeline is a joint venture between Houston-based Enterprise Products Partners and Canada-based Enbridge.

No injuries were reported. There is no word yet on monetary damages or environmental impact. 

Mark Haslett has served at KETR since 2013. Since then, the station's news operation has enjoyed an increase in listener engagement and audience metrics, as well recognition in the Texas AP Broadcasters awards.
Scott Morgan has been an award-winning journalist since 2001. His work has appeared in several newspapers and magazines as well as online. He has also been an editor, freelancer, speaker, writing teacher, author, and podcaster.