Markey Says Columbia Gas Had A Culture Opposed To Strong Safety Protections

Hearings will continue over September's Merrimack Valley gas explosions with a state hearing scheduled next week.

Those directly affected got a chance to air their concerns during a special congressional hearing in Lawrence Monday.

Among those who spoke was Lucianny Rondon, sister of Leonel Rondon, the 18 year-old man killed in the explosions.

"We will not have the joy of seeing the wonderful man we know he would have become," Rondon said. "I stand in front of you in his honor. I will never have my brother back. But we hope there will be justice for him, and the community."

U.S. Sen. Ed Markey led Monday's hearing, and is among several politicians calling for executives to step down because of how the explosions were handled. He also questions whether they should continue their work in Massachusetts and beyond.

Sen. Ed Markey, U.S. senator from Massachusetts. He tweets @senmarkey