EL CAJON, Calif. (KGTV) — A gas leak in the East County forced several businesses to abruptly close Friday, as crews worked to stop the leak.
The gas leak occurred North Marshall Ave. and Petree St. at about 12 p.m. when crews with Helix Water District struck a gas pipe while installing a communications line, according to El Cajon Fire Department.
A representative with the water district said HWD personnel arrived at the scene after the rupture had occurred and are not responsible for the damage.
Crews evacuated a nearby shopping center, where customers at the Black Bear Diner were given five minutes to leave the area. The leak also forced a nearby Rock Church and school to evacuate.
For four hours, several blocks were closed to motorists and MTS trolley and bus service were impacted in the area.
SDG&E has since stopped the leak by pinching off a section of the pipe in another area. Crews plan to take an additional two hours to repair the damged section of the gas line.
No injuries were reported.
