‘Serious’ gas leak under Shreveport bridge

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — On Wednesday at approximately 12:07 a.m. emergency crews were dispatched to a reported grass fire under a bridge in the 100 block of North Market Street in downtown Shreveport.

They initially believed the fire was a minor grass fire upon their arrival. However, according to the Shreveport Fire Department, fire units soon discovered that the situation was much more serious, involving a fire caused by an active gas line leak beneath the bridge.

“Upon reaching the scene, fire crews noticed not only the fire but also a downed power line. The
Shreveport Police Department (SPD) and Swepco were already on-site, securing the area for safety. As fire crews began their investigation, they determined that the fire was being fueled by a gas line leak underneath the bridge,” detailed the SFD.

CenterPoint Energy was quickly contacted, and their team arrived to assess the situation. They identified the leak and initiated emergency procedures to secure the area.

Fire crews remained on-site for approximately three hours, monitoring the situation and ensuring no further public safety risks.

Multiple agencies, including SPD, Swepco, State Police, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, and the local Water and Sewer Department, collaborated to ensure public safety and quickly control the situation.

There were no reported injuries, and the cause of the gas line leak is currently under investigation.

DOTD says the bridge has reopened to traffic and advises motorists that it has been inspected and deemed safe for travel.