SWANSEA — Police Chief Mark Foley and Fire Chief Eric Hajder report that a rear-end collision caused a vehicle to strike a home on Friday, leading to a gas leak that resulted in a precautionary evacuation of two neighboring properties.
At approximately 5:49 p.m. on Friday, June 19, Swansea Police and Fire were dispatched to 278 Wilbur Ave. for a report of a motor vehicle crash involving a residence.
A preliminary investigation determined that a driver was attempting to turn into a driveway, slowing down abruptly, before his vehicle was struck from behind by another vehicle. The impact caused the first vehicle to leave the roadway and strike the home, damaging the exterior of the residence in the area of a natural gas meter.
The collision resulted in a gas leak at the Wilbur Avenue property, leading Swansea Police and Fire to call Liberty Utilities to the scene. The Swansea Building Inspector also responded to assess the property.
As a precaution, neighboring homes at 270 and 290 Wilbur Ave. were temporarily evacuated while crews worked to secure the area.
Within a few hours, the gas leak was repaired, and the scene was deemed safe. Liberty Utilities completed its work and cleared at approximately 8:30 p.m., along with Swansea police and firefighters.
There were no injuries reported as a result of the collision. Both vehicles sustained minor damage. No criminal charges are being filed.
“We are grateful that no one was injured and appreciate the cooperation of all those involved while first responders and utility crews worked to ensure the area was safe,” said Police Chief Foley.
“This incident had the potential to become much more serious, and we commend the quick actions of our firefighters, police officers and Liberty Utilities personnel in securing the gas leak and protecting nearby residents,” said Fire Chief Hajder.
###
Discover more from John Guilfoil Public Relations
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.