Tuesday March 19th, 2024 4:45AM

Cleveland GBI offices evacuated after gas leak

By Staff, Dean Dyer/WRWH
CLEVELAND - A propane gas leak at the Georgia Bureau of Investigation office south of Cleveland Wednesday forced the evacuation of the GBI office and laboratory.

Ana Newberry, White County Fire Department spokeswoman, said a gas company worker was filling a large 12,000-gallon tank when he noticed a leak. Fire officials were notified and the buildings were evacuated.

White County Fire Chief Dickie Howard said a 3-inch fracture was discovered at the bottom of the tank, and said they are concerned that the tank could explode.

"Our worst fear is that the tank will rupture," Howard said. "And the vibrations from the pump has been one of our concerns."

Howard said representatives from Amerigas are transferring the gas to other tanks to reduce the danger. He said most of the other buildings in the park were not occupied because of the holidays.

Officials expect the gas transfer process could last until about 8 p.m. Wednesday. They said steady wind and low humidity has helped to dissipate gas fumes that have escaped.

The GBI offices are located in the White County Industrial Park on the south end of the county.
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