SANTA FE, Texas — Five gas company contract workers in Santa Fe were injured when a gas line exploded and sent a column of fire into the air.
Two of the workers were airlifted with severe burns and both were listed as in critical condition, according to Santa Fe PD Lt. Greg Boody.
At least three other workers were taken by ambulance to UTMB Health's trauma center at John Sealy Hospital in Galveston.
The fire is now out.
The injured workers are contractors preparing a gas line, Boody said. They're working for a firm hired by CenterPoint Energy.
It happened on Avenue M and 24th Street at about 6:15 p.m. The incident shut down 24th Street.
CenterPoint Energy released the following statement Thursday evening:
"Earlier this evening CenterPoint Energy was made aware of a natural gas incident in Santa Fe, Texas. Contract crews with Dayton Pipeline were working for CenterPoint Energy when the incident occurred.
"Five contract crew members were transported to UTMB Galveston for treatment as a result of their injuries. Their conditions are unknown at this time. CenterPoint Energy crews remain on site, working closely with emergency responders to secure the area and investigate the cause of the incident. We would like to thank the City of Santa Fe and all of the emergency responders for their support and assistance."
On Friday morning, CenterPoint released another statement:
"On the evening of Thursday, June 6, CenterPoint Energy responded to a natural gas incident in Santa Fe, Texas. Contract crews with Dayton Pipeline were working for CenterPoint Energy when the incident occurred. Five contract crew members were transported to UTMB Galveston for treatment as a result of their injuries. Inquiries on their conditions should be directed to Dayton Pipeline. Our thoughts are with the injured contract crew members and their families at this time. CenterPoint Energy continues to work closely with Dayton Pipeline and local first responders to investigate the cause of the incident."
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