Gas pipeline rupture in Tyler, Texas prompts evacuations, road closures
(UI) - A vehicle collision with a natural gas pipeline on the west side of Tyler, Texas, triggered evacuations and traffic closures as crews worked to control the release and assess system conditions.
According to city officials, the incident occurred near Highway 31 West and Whiteside Drive, where a vehicle struck the pipeline, rupturing a main line and releasing natural gas into the area. Residents in the immediate vicinity were asked to evacuate as a precaution while emergency responders established a safety perimeter.
According to CBS 19 News, CenterPoint Energy, which operates the line, closed several remote valves to slow the flow of gas. However, officials said the line could not be fully shut down immediately, and crews were conducting on-site monitoring to measure gas concentrations and support isolation efforts. Full shutdown and repair activities were expected to take several hours.
Local police and fire departments coordinated traffic control and emergency response. Highway 31 West was closed between Eisenhower Drive and Loop 323, with motorists directed to use alternate routes while crews remained on scene.
Tyler police reported that the driver involved in the collision was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated. One police officer responding to the incident was transported to a hospital after feeling ill but was later reported to be in stable condition, CBS 19 reported.
Tyler Independent School District said schools remained open following consultation with city officials, though bus routes were being evaluated for potential delays due to road closures. District officials said parents would be notified directly if transportation schedules were affected.
CenterPoint Energy has not yet released a timeline for permanent repairs or restoration of normal operations.
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