Gas Leak Forces Evacuation at Middleboro Hannaford Plaza

MIDDLEBORO (WBSM) — A Middleboro supermarket and its surrounding strip mall were evacuated earlier today following a gas leak.

Gas Leak Detected at Middleboro Hannaford Plaza

Middleboro Fire Chief Owen F. Thompson said that at about 12:05 p.m., 911 calls reported a strong gas odor in the Hannaford Supermarket parking lot at 10 Merchants Way.

Middleboro Fire and EMS responded and found a heavy odor of natural gas in the parking lot, as well as inside the supermarket and the neighboring Aubuchon Hardware store.

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“Based on the levels of natural gas inside the structures, all the stores in the strip mall were evacuated,” Chief Thompson said. “Our crews located a gas meter at the rear of the building that had been dislodged from the supply line coming from the ground.”

Fire crews were able to safely shut down the gas line and ventilate the buildings. They remained on scene while Middleboro Gas and Electric secured the supply line and meter.

No injuries were reported, and all crews cleared the scene by approximately 1:30 p.m.

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Gas Levels Reached Explosive Range

“Our crews did a great job quickly locating and shutting off the natural gas line,” Thompson said. “We were extremely fortunate in this situation. The levels of gas in the hardware store were well into the explosive range, and we were able to evacuate and ventilate without any significant issues.”

Snowplow May Have Caused the Leak

Thompson said the preliminary investigation suggests a snowplow likely dislodged the meter from the gas line.

Officials Urge Residents to Report Gas Odors

“It's extremely important, following major inclement weather and at all other times, that residents remain vigilant when it comes to the potential dangers of natural gas,” he said. “If you smell gas, call 911, and we'll check it out. Always better safe than sorry when it comes to flammable gas and potential leaks.”