A natural gas pipeline in a rural area of Pettis County experienced
problems about midnight on Thursday, Nov. 28, and a resultant explosion
and fire could be seen up to 12 miles away or even further. The
pipeline, operated by Panhandle Eastern, ruptured near Hughesville. The
Pettis County Sheriff’s Department indicated several farm buildings,
equipment and hay bales were set afire as well as a field. A few area
residents within three miles of the fire were evacuated and returned to
their households early Friday morning. A number of public safety agencies responded to the area, including firefighters and law enforcement personnel. The pipeline was shut down, gas rerouted and company representatives and crew were at the scene with repairs underway. A Panhandle Eastern representative indicated no injuries were reported.
