Crime & Safety

Underground Fire, Gas Leak In Pottstown: Latest Updates

The incident drew a massive emergency response in Pottstown Friday afternoon.

Crews responded to an incident in Pottstown on Friday afternoon.
Crews responded to an incident in Pottstown on Friday afternoon. (Ted Hodgins/Upper Providence Dept of Fire and Emergency Services)

POTTSTOWN, PA — An underground fire occurred in Pottstown on Friday afternoon in the area of a gas leak, leading to a large emergency crew response.

The incident occurred in the area of High Street and Manatawny Street just before noon.

The fire occurred when an electric service line sparked, officials said.

Find out what's happening in Pottstownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

While crews were investigating the incident, they discovered a gas leak from a nearby service line. The leak was promptly located and shut off, officials said.

credit: Ted Hodgins/Upper Providence Dept of Fire and Emergency Services

Before authorities knew where the leak was coming from, residents could smell a "significant" odor of gas in the area, and first responders went door to door to investigate.

Find out what's happening in Pottstownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"The incident is currently under control and there is no threat to public safety at this time. No injuries have been reported," the borough of Pottstown shared in a statement. "However, we ask residents and motorists to continue avoiding the immediate area so repair crews can safely complete their work and responders can complete final building checks."

High Street remains shut down from Hanover Street to Mantawny Street, and that closure is expected to last into the evening.

The Montgomery County Department of Public Safety sent a hazmat crew to the scene during the investigation.

No injuries have been reported.

Ted Hodgins/Upper Providence Dept of Fire and Emergency Services

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.