Gas Leak Causes Evacuations Near Lake Merritt
OAKLAND (BCN) -- A gas leak that prompted the evacuation of buildings just east of Lake Merritt in Oakland Thursday afternoon has been capped, a PG&E spokesman said.
The leak was reported sometime around 1 p.m. along a 3-inch steel gas line near the Lakeview Court apartment complex at 90 Athol Ave.
PG&E spokesman Brian Swanson said it appears the leak was caused by a contractor installing cable in the area.
A few nearby buildings were evacuated by Oakland firefighters and PG&E, Swanson said. No injuries were reported.
Swanson said the leak was capped around 4:45 p.m., and that authorities will be allowing residents and employees back into the buildings early Thursday evening after inspecting them to make sure they are safe.
About 30 customers lost gas and electric service at the Lakeview Court complex, Swanson said. He said crews will remain at the site into the evening to repair the line and restore service.
Police closed East 18th Street between Lake Merritt and Third Avenue after the leak was reported. Swanson said shortly before 5 p.m. that the road was expected to reopen soon.
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