URGENT UPDATE: A significant propane leak caused by a vehicle crash has led to the closure of part of Route 7A in Shaftsbury for over two hours on October 14, 2023. The incident unfolded around 9:45 p.m. when the Vermont State Police received reports of a leak originating from an underground tank.
Authorities confirmed that a vehicle, reportedly a tractor-trailer attempting a U-turn, damaged a 500-gallon underground propane tank located on the front lawn of a property at 3345 Route 7A. However, Shaftsbury Fire Chief Joe Vadakin stated that the evidence does not conclusively indicate a tractor-trailer was involved, as tire marks did not match those of such a vehicle. The driver of the vehicle left the scene before emergency responders arrived.
“We evacuated the adjacent houses and promptly shut down the road,” Vadakin explained. The Shaftsbury Fire Department quickly established a water curtain to mitigate the propane leak and protect the surrounding area. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident.
Emergency personnel, including teams from the North Bennington, Bennington, and Arlington Fire Departments, responded swiftly. Suburban Propane technicians arrived on-site to seal the leak and secure the tank, allowing residents to safely return to their homes after the situation was stabilized.
The scene was cleared just after midnight, but the investigation remains ongoing. The Vermont State Police are actively looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident. “This incident remains under investigation,” the VSP stated in a press release, urging anyone with information to contact the Shaftsbury Barracks.
As authorities continue their inquiry, residents are advised to stay informed about any further developments related to this incident. This situation highlights the importance of rapid emergency response in safeguarding community safety.
