First responders on scene at oil well incident

Multiple agencies are on the scene of a fire at an oil well site near Hwy. 45.

According to Emergency Management Director Angle Atchison, first responders are battling a fire that started when it appeared one of the storage tanks was struck by lightning. She said the blaze is under control and they are waiting for it to burn itself out.

At 6:45, Atchison confirmed that lightning hit a tank. She said the fire was under control. While 45 was still closed and was expected to be open again by roughly 7:30.

She added that all motorists should avoid Hey. 45 if possible. Congestion along the highway is occurring as travelers slow down to witness the situation.

According to reports, Dyess Bridge Road over 45 is seeing limited access. Motorists are asked not to use that exit on either side of 45.

Residents in the area are asked to shelter in place at this time.