iStock/Thinkstock(BIRMINGHAM, Ala.) — At least one person was killed in a pipeline blast in Alabama Monday afternoon, officials said.
The explosion occurred around 3 p.m. after a piece of equipment hit the line in Shelby County.
“Gasoline was ignited and caused a fire, which continues to burn,” the pipeline operator said.
Five people were hurt and taken to area hospitals for treatment. One person was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Our deepest condolences go out tonight to the family and friends of the person who was lost today, and our thoughts and prayers are with those who were injured,” the pipeline operator said in a statement.
In the wake of the incident, Colonial shut down the two pipelines that run through the area.
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