FAYETTE COUNTY, Ohio — A major underground gas leak has forced authorities to order an immediate evacuation of residents in the area of the old Sunnyside School, specifically in the 700 block of South Fayette Street, Washington Court House on Saturday.
Sheriff Vernon Stanforth announced the situation to the media. He informed the residents that the Fire Department had detected a potential significant gas leak in the vicinity, although it is not originating from the old school as initially suspected.
“The exact location of the leak is still being determined. However, our initial investigation suggests it’s somewhere in the vicinity of the old Sunnyside School,” Stanforth said. “For safety measures, we’re issuing an immediate evacuation order for the nearby residents.”
It is essential to note that the leak does not stem from the old school itself, a detail clarified by Sheriff Stanforth. The area of primary concern is the 700 block of South Fayette Street, though other adjacent areas may also be affected.
Stanforth urged residents to comply promptly with the evacuation order, emphasizing that the situation presents a possible risk to the health and safety of everyone in the affected area. He also assured residents that professionals are working diligently to rectify the situation.
“The Washington Court House FD and other relevant agencies are working tirelessly to manage the situation,” Stanforth continued. “We are doing everything in our power to mitigate any potential danger and hope to have everyone safely back in their homes as soon as possible.”
Authorities are urging everyone in the area to stay clear until further notice. Updates on the situation will be provided as more information becomes available.