Crime & Safety

Gas Leak Near New Silver Spring Library Sparks Evacuation

Montgomery County fire crews were called, and utility workers have sealed the leak, say officials.

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A backhoe reportedly struck and ruptured a gas line near the new Silver Spring library Monday afternoon, which sparked an evacuation of the area.

The area around Wayne Avenue and Fenton Street was blocked off about 3 p.m. because of the accident, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services PIO Pete Piringer said via Twitter.

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Hazmat crews were called to the scene, as well as utility workers. The leak in the 4-inch high-pressure line was closed by workers about 3:20 p.m., Piringer said.

There was no fire from the leak and no injuries were reported.

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Firefighters are checking the area for residual leaks before streets are reopened.

»Photos from MCFRS/Pete Piringer

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