PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. (7News) — More than 80 residents were evacuated Thursday night after a natural gas line was damaged in Lake Ridge, according to Prince William County fire officials.
Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue crews were called to the near the intersection of Oakwood Drive and Catania Place around 9:30 p.m. for reports of an outdoor gas leak.
Crews found a three-inch gas line that had been struck during excavation work, causing a significant leak and prompting the evacuation of about 65 townhomes.
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Officials said a total of 82 residents were taken to Woodbridge High School for temporary shelter.
Hazardous materials crews assisted while Washington Gas worked to secure the line, which the department said was brought under control shortly after midnight.
Of the evacuees, authorities said 30 adults and two children required additional overnight sheltering because gas service could not be restored to their homes.
“All others temporarily sheltered at Woodbridge High School were able to either return to their homes or provide for their own housing for the rest of the evening,” a spokesperson for the fire department added.
One person was evaluated at the scene but did not need further treatment. No other injuries were reported.