Company says blast-damaged gas line in Alabama has reopened

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HELENA, Ala. — The company that owns the gasoline pipeline that exploded and erupted in flames in Alabama this week said it restored service to the line on Sunday.

The pipeline owned by Colonial Pipeline Co., which transports gasoline from the Gulf Coast to New York City, exploded Monday while a crew was making repairs related to a September gas spill.

Shelby County Deputy Coroner Lina Evans said Anthony Lee Willingham, 48, of Heflin, Alabama, died in the blast. Four other people were injured and remained hospitalized.

Colonial said it began excavating Wednesday night at the site, located about 25 miles southwest of Birmingham, Alabama.

"I am grateful for the quick response of Colonial Pipeline to restore the operation of this gasoline pipeline," said Gov. Pat McCrory. "This means that North Carolina, as well as our neighboring states, have averted a serious situation regarding our gas supply. As a result, effective Wednesday I am rescinding my order suspending non-essential travel by state employees."

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