News

Actions

Gas leak prompts evacuation of Richmond residents

Posted at 4:48 PM, Dec 16, 2012
and last updated 2012-12-17 00:46:47-05

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR)—Richmond residents living the east end of the city, near Fairfield Court elementary school were evacuated from their homes because of a gas leak.

They have since been allowed to return, although gas won’t be restored until Monday. 

Around 3:35 p.m., Richmond firefighters were dispatched for a report of a strong smell of gas, confirmed Lt. Hagaman. 

Once crews arrived on scene there was a very strong odor.

Crews found that a gas main had ruptured near the 2500 block of Phaup Street, near Fairfield Court Elementary School.

Right now fire crews are evacuating a two-square block area, of the 2500-2700 blocks, said Lt. Hagaman. 

Traffic is shut down near Phaup, Fairfield, Kane, 26th and 27th Streets.

GRTC is helping to assist residents that are being evacuated.