Natural Gas Pipeline Ruptures Spur Massive Fireball, Char Freight Train Wyoming

A Kinder Morgan natural gas pipeline ruptured early Sunday morning near Interstate 80 west of Cheyenne, Wyoming, igniting a massive fireball that was visible over 60 miles away, including as far south as Loveland, Colorado. The blaze charred Union Pacific freight cars carrying hazardous materials, although no cars derailed and no injuries or hazardous material leaks were reported. Emergency crews from multiple agencies responded quickly and had the fire under control by around 9 a.m. The freight train was stopped about 40 feet from the burning pipeline, and Union Pacific is assessing potential track repairs. Incident commanders praised the swift actions of first responders for preventing further escalation and ensuring public safety. The National Transportation Safety Board is expected to investigate the cause of the pipeline rupture.