Response agencies respond to gas leak at Michigan Avenue and Chase Road in Logansport
Last Updated on September 12, 2023 by Cass County Emergency Management Agency
On September 11, 2023, after 3 p.m., emergency personnel were dispatched to the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Chase Road for a report of a gas leak. Initial investigation indicated Air Networks, LLC was excavating to install conduit and struck a gas line operated by NIPSCO. Metering equipment indicated a potentially explosive atmosphere above ground as well as in the adjacent sewers. Nearby homes and businesses were evacuated as a precaution.
NIPSCO arrived on scene and indicated the line struck was a 4” steel main that would require excavation and welding to repair. Power was disconnected in the immediate area to prevent the introduction of an ignition source as crews worked to contain the incident.
Crews worked through the evening to implement a temporary bypass to eliminate the leak and provide temporary service to nearby homes and businesses. Emergency personnel remained on scene monitoring conditions and standing by due to the continued presence of a potentially explosive atmosphere.
Emergency services personnel were released from the scene at approximately 1030pm.
NIPSCO remains on scene completing permanent repairs today. Open time for the roadway, as of this morning, is forecast for 330pm per NIPSCO.
Michigan Avenue remains closed at the Chase Road intersection. Power has been restored, and nearby businesses including Dollar General have reopened.
Responding organizations included Logansport Police and Fire Departments, Cass County Emergency Management Agency, Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Cass County Emergency Medical Services, Logansport Utilities, NIPSCO, USIC, Cass County Traffic Control Unit, Cass County Special Officers, Indiana Department of Transportation and American Red Cross. Logansport Memorial Hospital provided a short term refuge for evacuated residents until other arrangements could be made.
SOURCE: News release from Cass County Emergency Management Agency