Authorities in Deer Park, Texas, have launched a criminal investigation into a fatal car crash that resulted in a massive gas pipeline explosion earlier this week. The incident, which led to a towering inferno that has been blazing for days, claimed the life of the unidentified driver and caused damage to several homes in the area.

The white SUV involved in the crash was recently removed from the scene by officials, who are working to identify the remains found in the vehicle. Investigative teams are looking into whether the crash was a deliberate act targeting the gas pipeline owned by Energy Transfer or simply a tragic accident. The blast took place near a bustling shopping complex and residential area east of Houston.

Although initial assessments have ruled out terrorism as a cause of the explosion, authorities are still probing into the details surrounding the incident. The moment of impact was captured on video, showing the vehicle crashing through the pipeline's fencing and triggering the dramatic ignition. Despite the reduction in the flames' intensity, residents remain apprehensive about returning to their homes due to safety concerns. The disaster has once again shaken the community, which is located in close proximity to oil refineries and chemical facilities.

Lina Hidalgo, the top official in Harris County, has labeled the incident as an accident but emphasized that investigators are diligently examining all aspects of the crash. The fire's severity has lessened, allowing residents to assess the damage to their properties, several of which sustained considerable harm. Energy Transfer has assured affected residents of support and accommodation during the ongoing evacuation process, stressing that the controlled burning of the residual gas is the safest method to manage the situation.