BREAKING: Major Gas Leak Closes Idaho 44 Near Middleton and Star

A significant gas leak near Middleton has prompted the Ada County Sheriff's Office to issue an urgent traffic alert for the Treasure Valley. Idaho 44, just west of Star, has been closed due to this emergency, and motorists are urged to avoid the area.

The origin of the gas leak is unknown as of right now, but it poses a serious hazard to both residents and commuters. The situation is likely to be ongoing for at least the next few hours, but the exact duration of the road closure remains uncertain. Local authorities are taking the incident seriously.

We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.

UPDATE: October 12, 1:55 p.m. Idaho 44 is now reopen, according to ACSO who shared another post to inform the public.

Turns out, the cause of the leak was an excavator incident, and with the exception of the excavator operator, there were no other injuries reported, and no fatalities.

Read here for more information about the gas leak in Middleton this morning. Plus, footage of the explosion.

We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Safety remains the top priority. We express our gratitude and appreciation for the first responders, as well as the residents and commuters who spread the word and cooperated with officials and law enforcement.

Please continue to exercise caution and stay safe.