HOUSTON, TEXAS, June 3, 2002—El Paso Corporation (NYSE:EP) released the following statement today:

The employees of El Paso Corporation are deeply saddened by yesterday's tragic news of the death of Charles Dana Rice, 47, senior vice president and treasurer. "Dana was a member of the El Paso family for 25 years and was a personal friend," said William A. Wise, chairman, president, and chief executive officer. "Dana was a tireless worker, a valued contributor, and will be missed both as a business associate and as a friend. Our hearts and prayers are with his wife and their family."