A gas pipeline operator has agreed to pay $1.425 million to settle federal allegations related to a fatal regulatory violation, according to an announcement by United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould.
The case stems from a civil complaint filed by the United States in April 2025 against Panhandle Eastern Pipe Line Co., LP (PEPL), which is owned by Energy Transfer, LP. The complaint sought injunctive relief and civil penalties under the Pipeline Safety Act. It alleged that PEPL failed to follow its written procedures for operations and maintenance at its Borchers Station near Meade, Kansas, leading to an incident in March 2020 where a pipeline cleaning pig was ejected from a partially-pressurized receiver barrel during maintenance. The object struck and killed a PEPL employee.
A pipeline cleaning pig is used in the industry to clean pipelines by removing deposits and contaminants such as scale or rust.
United States Attorney Ryan Raybould stated, “This settlement reflects our commitment to impose accountability in regulatory matters. The outcome here illustrates the importance and necessity of compliance and appropriate enforcement actions to prevent and address tragic circumstances such as those alleged in this case.”
PHMSA Administrator Paul Roberti commented, “Safety and enforcement go hand in hand. The complaint alleged that the company’s failure to follow the rules led to an employee’s death. We will not let operators escape accountability in cases like this one and will continue to take whatever steps are necessary to ensure our nation’s energy infrastructure is safe.”
According to terms finalized with the Department of Justice on December 31, 2025, PEPL will pay $1.425 million without admitting liability or wrongdoing; all claims resolved are allegations only.
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration investigated this case before referring it for resolution by the Department of Justice. Assistant U.S. Attorney Saurabh Sharad represented the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas.
