The Latest: Death Toll Rises to 73 in Mexico Pipeline Blast

Hidalgo state Gov. Omar Fayad says the death toll from an explosion at a punctured pipeline in central Mexico has risen to 73, while the number of injured stands at 74.

Forensic experts continue to comb the site for remains, many of which were reduced to ashes. At least 54 bodies have yet to be identified. Dozens of family members have gathered at the site hoping to find loved ones since the gusher of gasoline burst into a fireball Friday evening. President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador says he will reinforce security along the country's pipeline network, if necessary, but that pipelines remain the most efficient and cost-effective way to distribute fuel.

His administration has been transporting more fuel via trucks over the past three weeks in an attempt to dismantle a sophisticated network of fuel theft that costs state oil company Pemex $3 billion a year. The battle against gas theft has led to long lines at the pump and gasoline scarcity in much of the country.

https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2019-01-19/the-latest-mexico-explosion-death-toll-hits-66-85-missing