100 homes evacuated after gas line struck by contractor in Collier Township

A contractor working on a road widening project in Collier Township hit a high-pressure gas line early Wednesday, causing about 100 homes to be evacuated.

It happened around 12:15 a.m. at the intersection of Washington Pike and Vanadium Road, according to Columbia Gas.

“They came ringing our doorbell, telling us to evacuate quickly…just grab your essentials and leave,” said Sharon DiMatteo, who was evacuated from her Collier Township home.

Residents were able to go to the Presto Volunteer Fire Department, where the Red Cross set up tents for them.

“I was definitely scared. We have a six-year-old, so she was freaking out too, she was crying,” said Asia Laurie, who was also evacuated.

Residents were told they could return to their homes around 5 a.m., but they won’t have gas or electric for a while as crews work to repair the line.

Columbia Gas said as of 10:30 a.m., repairs are ongoing and will likely go on throughout Wednesday and into Thursday. The crews on site expect to have everything completed and gas restored to the line by early evening.

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