Oil Rig Explodes In Gulf Of Mexico

By Peter Fowler at 2 Sep 2010

An oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico has exploded around 130km (80 miles) south of Vermilion Bay along the central Louisiana coast, but all on board have reportedly been rescued.

The platform is reportedly still on fire but was not producing oil or gas, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

The Coast Guard said boats and aircraft were en route to the site.

Thirteen people aboard the rig at the time of the explosion were reportedly thrown into the water, but have all been rescued and are being transported to hospital. One person is reportedly injured.