Multiple People Injured in TX Pipeline Explosion

Texas firefighters were battling a blaze that erupted following an apparent pipeline explosion Friday that injured multiple people.

The incident happened shortly after 8 a.m. when a barge struck a pipeline in Corpus Christi's port and refinery district, the Corpus Christi Call Times reports. Photos and video footage from the scene shows thick plumes of smoke coming from the area of the explosion.

At least six people were injured in the explosion and taken to the hospital. No details were given concerning the nature or the extent of the injuries, according to the Caller Times. Two people refused treatment.

Corpus Christi Fire Chief Robert Rocha told the Caller Times that firefighters were trying to determine how many people were near the explosion and could possibly be injured. The Coast Guard also was searching for missing crew members from a dredging vessel.

As of 11 a.m., the fire no longer posed a threat to the public. Gov. Greg Abbott said state authorities would be working with local officials and the Coast Guard to make sure the scene was safe.