Gas Leak Prompts Mass Evacuation Of Target Shopping Center In Rohnert Park

ROHNERT PARK, CA -- A gas line was ruptured Thursday night at a Rohnert Park shopping center, prompting authorities to call for an hours-long evacuation of the 99 Cents Only store where the gas leak occurred, as well as surrounding stores including Target, Burlington Coat Factory and Jo-Ann fabrics, public safety officials said.

According to Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety Commander Aaron Johnson, crews responded at about 7 p.m. to the Target shopping center on Rohnert Park Expressway after dispatchers received multiple calls regarding a gas leak at the rear of the 99 Cents Only store adjacent to Target.

"Upon arrival of the first unit, it was determined that the main gas line to the business was struck by a forklift operator," Johnson said. "Unfortunately the line ruptured below the shut off valve so first responders could not shut off the gas."

PG&E then responded and recommended establishing a 1,000-foot perimeter around the leak based on its size, Johnson said.

Public safety personnel complied with the utility company's request and proceeded to evacuate the adjacent stores and parking lots, Johnson said.

PG&E crews stopped the leak at about 10 p.m., at which time the evacuations were lifted.

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