Early this morning, 75 West Whittier residents found themselves facing a precarious situation as they were evacuated from their homes due to a dangerous gas leak. Fortunately, the swift response from the sheriff's deputies and SoCalGas ensured that no injuries were reported, and residents could safely return to their homes within a few hours. The gas leak was discovered in the 7500 block of Vicki Drive.
Major Gas Leak Reported in the area of 7500 block of Vicki Drive in Whittier. Please avoid the area!
— LASD Pico Rivera (@PRVLASD) September 14, 2023
Evacuated residents are temporarily relocated to Phelan Language Academy at 7150 Cully Ave, Whittier, with the assistance of @RedCross @RedCrossLA.
No injuries reported.
The evacuation unfolded at around 1:30 a.m., affecting 24 homes in the unincorporated county area. Vulnerable residents and families were immediately relocated to Phelan Language Academy at 7150 Cully Avenue, Whittier, thanks to the efficient cooperation between the authorities and partners such as the Red Cross. This swift response guaranteed a safe and temporary shelter for the affected individuals in need.
SoCalGas was quick to attend to the situation and control the gas leak. According to their spokesperson, Brittany Paul, the gas leak originated from a 3-inch gas line. The gas was successfully controlled around 8 a.m. on September 14th, and permanent repairs were being finalized to avoid similar troubles in the future. As reported in the Whittier Daily News, the cause of the gas leak had not yet been determined.
