Crime & Safety

Broken Gas Line Forces Richmond Annex Evacuations

A 3-inch natural gas pipeline was ruptured on Carlson Boulevard about 3 p.m., apparently by a construction crew, forcing evacuation of several blocks and cutting gas service to dozens of customers, officials said.

Several blocks in the Richmond Annex near Carlson Boulevard were evacuated following the rupture of a 3-inch PG&E natural gas pipeline, apparently by a construction crew, at Carlson and Santa Cruz Avenue, officials said.

The accident occurred about 3 p.m., according to Richmond Fire Chief Michael Banks, though some residents said they believe it occurred earlier. The leak was stopped by PG&E workers around 4:30 p.m.

No injuries were reported, and residents were allowed to return home shortly after 5 p.m., Banks said.

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Banks estimated that around a dozen blocks were evacuated.

"It was hissing big time," said one resident who had smelled the gas and called 911. He said it took about half an hour for the fire department and PG&E to arrive.

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A resident who asked not to be identified said that when he went outside to investigate the loud hiss and strong odor of gas, the construction crew had left. He said it was residents who first alerted emergency services.

Banks confirmed that the first calls came from residents. "The initial calls came from private citizens in the area."

PG&E spokeswoman Jana Morris said gas service was stopped for 35 gas meters, which would typically means 35 residences and businesses. She said service was expected to be restored by around 7 p.m.

Banks said the break in the line apparently was caused by the road-construction company that has been working on Carlson for several months.


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