No one hurt in Oklahoma natural gas pipeline explosion

AMES, Okla. (AP) — There were no injuries when a natural gas pipeline exploded early Thursday in northwestern Oklahoma, authorities said.

The explosion occurred at about 5:45 a.m. in a field southeast of the town of Ames, about 65 miles (105 kilometers) northwest of Oklahoma City, according to Ames Fire Chief Mike Willey.

“There was no threat to people or private property,” Willey said. “The closest house is about a quarter mile away.”

A fire in the 6- to 8-inch pipeline was brought under control shortly after 9 a.m., but the cause has not been determined, Willey said.

The pipeline is owned by Denver-based DCP Midstream, according to Oklahoma Corporation Commission spokesperson Matt Skinner.

DCP spokesperson Jeanette Alberg said in a statement that the pipeline is shut down and there has been no other damage.

“The cause of the incident is being investigated and we are collaborating with first responders in the area,” Alberg said. ”Our first concern is for the safety of the community and our employees.”

Skinner said the pipeline is a gathering pipeline where gas from various wells are gathered for transportation.