Massive Gas Explosion Rocks Central California, Leaves Multiple People Injured

UPDATE — 7:27 p.m. ET: Fresno's Fire chief said at least 14 individuals were injured from the gas explosion.

The incident occurred when a Fresno County worker operating a tractor hit a gas line, causing an explosion at a gun range, the Fresno County Sheriff's Office said, according to KFSN-TV.

—

Multiple injures were reported after a massive explosion rocked Central California Friday afternoon when crews accidentally struck a gas line, officials said.

“We have a minimum of eight burn injuries,” emergency medical services director Dan Lynch told the Fresno Bee. “We don’t know the severity of the burns and we have eight ambulances on scene with the fire department.”

The incident occurred in Fresno near Highway 99, forcing the California Highway Patrol to stop traffic in both directions.

"Literally just drove through this inferno on the freeway," one person wrote on Instagram. "The tremendous heat was felt on our faces through the car windows."

A photo posted by Claudia (@luv2bsunshyne) on Apr 17, 2015 at 2:40pm PDT

According to KFSN-TV, witnesses reported flames shooting about 200 feet into the air.

This is a developing news story. Updates will be added.

—

Follow Oliver Darcy (@oliverdarcy) on Twitter