Crews work to fix ruptured gas line in KC

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Authorities in Kansas City say a rupture in a major underground gas line prompted evacuations of nearly a dozen houses.

The rupture occurred outside an automotive repair shop in the southern part of the city about 2 p.m. Wednesday.

Fire department spokesman Joe Vitale (vih-TAL'-ee) says no injuries were reported.

Missouri Gas Energy spokesman Jason Fulp said the rupture in the 16-inch pipe blew a large hole in the ground above. Fulp said pressure in the pipe was reduced by Wednesday evening to the point where workers could begin repairs.

Emergency crews took readings of gas levels in neighboring homes. Fire officials said 10 houses with high readings were evacuated.