FROM STAFF REPORTS

At 5:34 p.m. on May 7, 2014, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office reopened Shelby County 47 after a vehicle crash ruptured a natural gas line in the area.

Sheriff’s Office officials urged motorists to travel safely as work crews may remain in the area.

At 3:25 p.m. on May 7, 2014, Highway 47 was closed between the intersections of Highway 61 and Shelby County Highway 42 to all traffic in both directions due to a motor vehicle accident that ruptured a natural gas line.

The road closure was south of Columbiana.

Shelby County Sheriff’s deputies and local fire and rescue personnel responded to the scene evacuating the area until the utility company stopped the leak.

“This is an extremely hazardous situation and local motorists are advised to slow down, remain attentive for first responders in the roadway and avoid the area completely if possible,” read a Shelby County Sheriff’s Office press release.