On Wednesday morning, an ammonia leak occurred at the Swaggerty Sausage facility in Kodak, leading to the evacuation of all personnel. Sevierville Public Information Officer Bob Stahlke confirmed the leak, stating that the building was cleared without injuries and there was no immediate threat to the public, according to WVLT News
First responders quickly arrived at the scene of a leak at the Swaggerty Sausage Company, where they remained as a precaution. The cause of the leak is still being investigated, and efforts to repair the breach are ongoing. Bob Stahlke confirmed to WBIR that the plant is working to resolve the issue. Founded in 1930 in Kodak, the company is still family-owned and operated by the third generation of the Swaggerty family, as noted on their website and reported by WATE.
The evacuation showed the risks at the plant, which is important to the local economy. As the plant works to return to normal, officials are ensuring the safety of workers and the environment. "At this time, there's no danger to the public," said Bob Stahlke, as stated by WVLT News.
