Fire erupts in Woodland Hills after backhoe strikes gas line; homes evacuated

WOODLAND HILLS, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Homes in Woodland Hills were evacuated after a backhoe struck a gas line and ignited a fire Wednesday afternoon.

The Los Angeles City Fire Department said the backhoe/tractor hit a 4-inch gas main in the 5800 block of N. Shoup Avenue shortly after 1 p.m.

Four homes in the area were evacuated, authorities said. There were also buildings exposed on three sides of the blaze, but those structures were not evacuated as the buildings were not at risk, fire officials said.

Firefighters worked to keep the flames from spreading until crews with the Southern California Gas Company were able to shut off the gas line just before 4 p.m.

The blaze completely charred the backhoe, as well as a nearby tree and fence.

Traffic was temporarily closed on N. Shoup Avenue at Tiara Street due to the fire.

Firefighters were to remain at the scene to ensure that hot embers wouldn't reignite any of the surrounding brush.

There were no injuries or homes damaged, according to the fire department. The residents evacuated from their homes have since been allowed to return.