Massive explosion causes fire at oil rig near Etoile, Texas

Published April 21st, 2026 - 06:24 GMT
oil rig
Firefighters. (Shutterstock)

ALBAWABA - An explosion struck a huge oil rig in Etoile, Texas, sending intense flames into the sky across East Texas, local media reported Tuesday.

The Nacogdoches County Sheriff's Office said authorities were notified by a report of an explosion and fire near an oil site, north of Etoile, Texas.

"Early reports indicate that all workers at the site are accounted for and have been evacuated. First responders are still arriving on the scene to evaluate the totality of the situation," the office said in a statement.

The media reported that first responders and emergency service members rushed to the location of the fire and are actively trying to contain the blaze.

According to sources, the fire has been ongoing for over an hour, while firefighters are battling to combat it.

Authorities opened an investigation to determine the cause of the explosion.