Crews find source of odor that evacuated Vandalia businesses, determined non-hazardous

UPDATE @ 12:48 p.m.:

Workers putting an additive into natural gas at a nearby fueling station was determined to be the source of a foul odor that prompted the evacuation of several businesses on Falls Creek Drive, according to firefighters.

The additive being used creates the smell that alerts people to possible natural gas leaks, however firefighters were able to determine there was no actual gas leak, firefighters said.

People have been allowed to return to the businesses that were evacuated and Falls Creek Drive has reopened.

UPDATE @ 12:42 p.m.:

Firefighters have determined there are no hazards and have allowed people to return to the businesses that were impacted, according to emergency dispatch reports.

Falls Creek Drive is expected to be reopened, according to dispatch traffic.

INITIAL REPORT:

Police and fire crews have closed Falls Creek Drive in the 800 block while fire crews attempt to determine an odor coming from several businesses in the area.

Initial reports were firefighters were investigating a possible gas leak in the area, according to dispatch records.

Several businesses are reportedly impacted, including the Abbey Credit Union.

We’re working to learn more.

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