Cause Of Toxic Industrial Leak In West Chester Remains Unknown

WEST CHESTER, PA — State environmental officials and Aqua PA are continuing to monitor the downstream flow of Goose Creek in West Chester this week following the industrial leak of a "milky white" toxic substance over the weekend.

The cause of the leak remains unknown, and the total amount discharged is also not yet clear.

It's not yet clear what further impacts the substance, identified as something called "Long Duration Foam AC-645," may have on the waterways. The substance is used as a barrier to control odors and dust from landfills or hazardous waste sites.

The leak has already killed a large number of fish and caused significant pollution in the creek. Officials have warned residents and pets to stay out of the water as the investigation remains ongoing.

Authorities have been able to trace the leak to an outflow pipe at Atmos Technologies, located on 216 Garfield Avenue. The company has not yet commented publicly on the leak or provided clarity on what led up to the incident. They have not responded to Patch's request for comment.

No further fish kill has been reported downstream as of Wednesday morning. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection added that the creek was clearing up, and conditions at the creek remained the same Tuesday.

The state investigation includes both West Chester and West Goshen officials, the DEP, Chester County Hazardous Materials Response Team and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

DEP is overseeing Atmos as they continue the cleanup.