Fallen tree ruptures gas line, sparks fire in Northbrook

NORTHBROOK, Ill. (WLS) -- A fallen tree in Northbrook caused a gas line fire knocking out power to a neighborhood Sunday.

It happened around 10 a.m. Firefighters said they were initially called because of a downed tree, but arrived to find the tree had broken powerlines and ruptured a gas line, causing flames to shoot out of the ground.

"Just heard the small explosion and when we walked out we saw a fire burning up in upper part of the tree," said resident Jim Letsos.

The fire was still burning three hours later.

Firefighters had to wait for the power to be shut off before they could put out the flames.

At least four square blocks were evacuated as a precaution.