GAS LEAK SPARKS EVACUATION

Avon Lake – Crews working along Moore Road in Avon Lake Monday morning accidentally struck a gas line causing an evacuation.

Lieutenant Larry Grizzell of the Avon Lake Fire Department said that crews from Fabrizi Excavating and Paving were digging a sewage line along Moore Road between Walker and Pin Oak when they struck the gas line. “The line they struck was a 3” medium pressure line that feeds into Poly One. Gas was spewing at 600psi and we determined that it was best to evacuate several of the homes and businesses in the immediate area until the incident was resolved.”

Lt. Grizzell said some businesses were asked to take “shelter in place”. Grizzell said people were very cooperative in this request.

As a precaution Firefighters pulled 300’ of supply line and laid a hand line while the repairs were being made by Columbia Gas.

Avon Lake Police secured the area by blocking traffic north and south of the incident.

A specially certified welder had to be called in to cap off the line. “Once he arrived on scene he was able to do his job and get the line capped within 5 to 10 minutes.”

To see more photos from the scene: CLICK HERE