Dallas

Mower Worker Dies in East Texas Gas Line Blast

A member of a mowing crew has died following an East Texas natural gas explosion when some brush-clearing equipment ruptured the line.

The Rusk County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday didn't immediately release the victim's name.

Sgt. David Roberts says there was no fire during the accident late Tuesday afternoon in a rural area about 12 miles southeast of Henderson.

Roberts says the man was using a mulcher to clear the pipeline right of way when he hit the line, causing an explosion and gas leak. Another worker called for help. The gas flow was cut off.

Residents within a mile of the site were evacuated but allowed to return home Tuesday night.

Roberts had no immediate details on the operator of the line.

Henderson is 130 miles southeast of Dallas.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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