First responders are performing search and rescue operations at the site of an explosion from an oil and gas production platform on Lake Pontchartrain, La., northwest of Treasure Chest Casino. It has been reported that one person is missing and seven are injured as a result of the explosion.
Reports of fire and smoke seen from Lake Pontchartrain came into the Jefferson Parish Emergency Operations center around 7:15 p.m. Emergency personnel from St. Charles Parish, Jefferson Parish, Kenner, the U.S. Coast Guard, East Jefferson General Hospital EMS and Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries have been deployed to the site of the fire.
Residents are urged by Jefferson Parish to avoid the Kenner Boat Launch as rescue crews will be in the area. As of now, several people have been rescued from the active fire on the platform, according to Jefferson Parish. The rescued have been transferred to East Jefferson Hospital.
The U.S. Coast Guard and the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation will be conducting water quality evaluations. Treasure Chest Casino will remain open and operational during these efforts.