Kansas levies fine of $180,000 against ONEOK for explosions

(Wichita, Kansas-AP) -- The state of Kansas is fining Oklahoma-based ONEOK $180,000 for a serious of explosions in Hutchinson last year. <br><br>The natural gas blasts killed a couple in their home and

Friday, July 26th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Wichita, Kansas-AP) -- The state of Kansas is fining Oklahoma-based ONEOK $180,000 for a serious of explosions in Hutchinson last year.

The natural gas blasts killed a couple in their home and destroyed two downtown businesses.

The fine is the maximum allowed under Kansas law and was issued Thursday by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Tulsa-based ONEOK is the parent company of Oklahoma Natural Gas and Kansas Gas Service.

A spokesman for the family of Mary Ann and John Hahn -- the couple killed when their mobile home filled with gas and exploded -- says they're pleased with the sanctions.