Gas leak shuts down traffic near NC 17 in Brunswick County

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office is assisting with a gas leak in the area of Highway 17 and New Pointe Boulevard.
Deputy Fire Chief Shelton James said the leak happened when a construction crew working in the area punctured a four-inch gas line, causing a pressure drop for nearby businesses.
The leak is isolated to the area and will not affect other lines.
As of now, the leak has been stopped, but the businesses are expected to remain closed until the gas company can replace the damaged valve.
It has not been confirmed how long that process could take.
According to the sheriff’s office, traffic is being temporarily shut down in the area while emergency crews assess and work to mitigate the leak.
Drivers are asked to avoid the area, use alternate routes and expect delays until the scene is deemed safe.