Homes Evacuated Near Gas Leak In Benicia, Fire Dept. Says

BENICIA, CA — Nine homes were evacuated Tuesday from a Benicia neighborhood after a contractor ruptured a natural gas line, according to the Benicia Fire Department. Personnel with the fire department responded to the 100 block of East G Street to evacuate residents and were planning on remaining at the scene as long as was necessary, Benicia Fire Department officials said in a Facebook post.

According to a PG&E spokesperson, the leak was caused by a third-party contractor not affiliated with PG&E who was digging Tuesday in the 100 block of E. G Street.

At about 1:45 p.m., the contractor hit a 1-inch plastic natural gas service line with a pickaxe, causing the release of gas, PG&E Spokeswoman Deanna Contreras told Patch.

PG&E crews responded and by 2:24 p.m., stopped the flow of gas, Contreras said.

"Gas service to a duplex was interrupted as crews safely made necessary repairs and then restored gas service immediately thereafter," Contreras said.

The incident was a good reminder to call 811 before any digging or construction takes place, to signal the utilities to locate and mark where the underground lines are located, Contreras said.

"Then follow all safe digging practices," she said.