Crews respond to large pipeline explosion outside Pyote

WARD COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – Several local fire departments responded to a large explosion outside of Pyote, referencing a pipeline fire near westbound Interstate 20.

According to a post by the Monahans Volunteer Fire Department, crews responded to reports of an explosion near mile marker 57 of the westbound I-20 south service road.

Upon arrival, crews found a pipeline rupture at an oilfield location between mile marker 66 and mile marker 57. Units remained on scene with the Wickett Fire Department for about nine hours and began working to extinguish the fire on a structure and electrical poles after the pipeline was shut in.

The Ward County Sheriff’s Office and Ward County Precinct Four were also on scene to aid with securing the scene and having water trucks on standby. The West Odessa Fire Rescue also provided manpower and a thermal drone to check for hot spots.

The Volunteer Fire Department said it was a complex incident and the cause remains under investigation by pipeline companies.

Aerial images provided by Ward County Sheriff’s Office.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin.