On Friday, November 4, 2022, at approximately 6:45am, the Bentleyville Fire Department responded to a 911 call by a resident regarding a small fire near Equitrans Midstream’s H-108 natural gas transmission line, located in Bentleyville Borough, Washington County, Pennsylvania. No injuries were reported and, in an abundance of caution, the fire department notified the Bentworth School District and all classes in the District were cancelled for the day.

Equitrans technicians were immediately dispatched and arrived on location to identify the ignition source as being an ancillary valve that is used to control the flow on the transmission line. The Equitrans technician who was on site closed the ancillary valve to isolate the source, and the flames were extinguished by approximately 7:30am. The local volunteer fire department was also on site to assist with fire safety protocols and to ensure there were no residual flames. 

A preliminary investigation indicates the fire resulted from a small leak in the valve tubing, which has been repaired. A root cause investigation is underway to identify the cause of the ignition; however, because the leak has been repaired there is no ongoing risk of further ignition. All state regulatory agencies, including the PAPUC, as well as local township officials and the school district superintendent were notified of the incident, and Equitrans will continue to provide any necessary updates.