Gas Leak in Crockett Causes Evacuation

Messenger Reporter

CROCKETT – City of Crockett officials responded quickly to a gas leak near downtown, Friday, Oct. 11, asking residents in nearly two dozen homes to evacuate the area, while the leak was repaired.

The leak was first reported shortly before 11:30 a.m., after a contractor noticed they had hit a gas line. Crockett Fire Department (CFD) quickly cordoned off an area including near Fourth, Fifth and Six Streets, and released the following statement:

"A gas leak has occurred near South Fifth Street and Bonham Avenue due to a contractor hitting a large gas main while replacing water lines. Emergency crews and public works officials are actively monitoring the perimeters of the affected area, checking for gas in both the air and sewer lines to ensure public safety.

At this time, residents in the immediate vicinity have been evacuated, and we are advising those nearby to stay with family or friends outside the affected area. For those needing alternative accommodations, the Civic Center has been set up as a temporary shelter.

Ongoing Safety Monitoring and Evacuation Information:

CFD Fire Marshall and Assistant City Administrator Lee Standley told The Messenger later in the afternoon the area was still locked down and residents were asked to remain patient, as the problem required a special crew from Center Point Energy in Houston to fix.

"Center point was waiting on crews because it was a six-inch pipe and it took a crew coming out of Houston to be able to repair that," Standley said.

The crew arrived on scene and was able to allow residents to return to their homes later in the evening.

Sources confirmed the cause of the leak was unknown, as the vendor had done due diligence in trying to locate gas lines before beginning the project. Standley said there would be an investigation, although the city's top priority was taking care of the problem and getting residents back home safely, and as soon as possible.

Returning residents were asked to check for gas in and around their homes upon returning, although CFD promised to do their best to check the area for gas before allowing anyone back into the area.

There were no injuries or damages reported.