Propane tank leak forces evacuation in southeast

Explosion risk closes two roads

A southeast industrial building was evacuated, roads were closed and fire crews and tactical team members were called Wednesday afternoon after a leaking propane tank was discovered in a building where other chemicals were stored.

The fire department was called to the 9900 block of Shepard Road S.E. at around 1:30 p.m. after an employee noticed that the drum containing the propane tank was bulging and recognized it as a safety hazard.

Members of the hazardous materials team and tactical team were called.

“It’s in a building where other chemicals are stored. The issue is, we can’t vent it in there,” said fire spokeswoman Carol Henke.

“Fire personnel are currently working on a plan to safely get the barrel outside to release the pressure.”

The 40 employees got out of the building before crews arrived.

“The company did a good job getting everyone out,” Henke said.

Barlow Trail from 90th to 106th Avenue, and Shepard Road from 90th to 99th Avenue were shut down during the investigation.