MATTHEWS, N.C. — It appears the towering flames from a ruptured natural gas leak on Wednesday afternoon have been extinguished.
About 100 firefighters and other emergency personnel are on the scene of a major gas line rupture and fire that started early Wednesday afternoon in Matthews at Pleasant Plains Road and Morningwood Drive. Chopper 9 Skyzoom footage showed the flames shooting several feet into the air from the location.
The situation started at about 12:20 p.m., and it appeared the flames were out at about 2:20 p.m.
Utility trucks were burning at the scene, and crews worked to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings. Several homes have been evacuated in the area.
The Matthews fire chief said Pike crews, who contract with Duke Energy, were drilling to set in a pole when they struck the 8-inch natural gas line at about 12:20 p.m., which caused the leak.
Matthews firefighters responded. They inspected the scene of the leak, and when they returned to their truck, the gas ignited, causing the fire.
Crews will remain on scene and traffic in the area will be impacted for some time.
No injuries have been reported. Two structures were severely damaged.
Matthews Fire, Wesley Chapel Fire Department, Charlotte Fire Department, and other agencies are all on the scene.
This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com and watch Eyewitness News for updates.