A 35-year-old Cuban citizen, Yuliesky La Rosa, has been apprehended in connection with a significant explosion that occurred on March 5 at a pipeline maintenance station in Reeves County, Texas. The explosion happened as he allegedly attempted to steal crude oil with other suspects.
The Reeves County Sheriff's Office reported that on the night of the incident, at approximately 11:30 p.m., emergency teams responded to a major explosion and fire at a tank battery near Highway 285 and County Road 436, close to Orla, Texas. Upon arrival, responders discovered crude oil ablaze and two empty tanker trucks at the scene. The site manager confirmed that all employees were safe and no one else was supposed to be on the premises.
Preliminary investigations showed that the truck drivers were illegally attempting to siphon oil from a pipeline maintenance station, disregarding safety protocols. The combination of static electricity and the system's high pressure led to the fire and subsequent explosion.
Florida Arrest and Serious Charges
La Rosa was taken into custody on April 21 by the Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office in Florida and was later extradited to Texas, where he was booked into the Reeves County Jail, as reported by Your Basin. He faces formal charges of organized criminal activity, a first-degree felony in Texas, and is being held without bail under the order of Judge Roger Harrison.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is being conducted by a coalition of state and federal agencies, including the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the State Emergency Management Agency. Authorities have indicated that the investigation remains active and additional arrests may be forthcoming.
Details on Texas Pipeline Explosion and Theft
What caused the explosion in Reeves County, Texas?
The explosion was caused by a combination of static electricity and high system pressure during an illegal attempt to siphon oil from a pipeline maintenance station.
Who is Yuliesky La Rosa?
Yuliesky La Rosa is a 35-year-old Cuban national arrested for his alleged involvement in the oil theft and subsequent explosion in Reeves County, Texas.
What charges is La Rosa facing?
La Rosa has been charged with organized criminal activity, which is a first-degree felony in Texas.