Gas Leak Forces Evacuation In Downtown Salem, New Jersey

SALEM -- A gas leak disrupted business as usual for the Market Street section of town that comprises the heart of the county seat around noon on Tuesday.

A stream of people shuffled toward St. John's Episcopal Church as authorities evacuated the Salem County Courthouse, Salem County Prosecutor's Office and other facilities because of a damaged natural gas line directly behind Five Star Auction, which is located on Fifth Street.

Salem City Fire Chief Fred Ayars said something ruptured the pipe below its valve, causing gas to vent and generate a loud screeching noise. Though he said it's likely that a vehicle struck the pipe, his office is not sure how the damage occurred.

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• Gas Leak Forces Evacuation In Downtown Salem, New Jersey