Marilla, N.Y. (WBEN) — Some concerns arose Friday morning in the Town of Marilla, as there was the report of a gas line rupture that resulted in eight nearby homes near 11965 Clinton Street to be evacuated.
The Erie County Sheriff's Office added to the original report, saying deputies and local fire companies responded to reports of an explosion and the odor of natural gas in the town.
However, both Natural Fuel and the Town of Marilla confirmed Friday all is safe and secure in the area.
"National fuel crews are on site at 11965 Clinton Street in Marilla, working on a natural gas mainline replacement project. During the work, a fitting, or a pipeline cufflink, blew off," said National Fuel spokesperson Karen Merkel. "The situation is safe, and gas services are off for approximately 30 residences."
National Fuel says crews continue to work on the gas line, and are hopeful to have all gas service back in working order by later Friday afternoon.
According to an earlier report, a contractor was struck by the cufflink that blew off from the gas line. However, National Fuel clarified that no one was struck or injured on site.
According to Marilla Town Supervisor Earl Gingerich, he explains what people may have heard was no explosion.
"What happened is the line was being worked on by contractors, and they put a cufflink in. Apparently it was leaking overnight and it blew apart, so the noise of the gas under pressure is what you were hearing."
Gingerich says the residents in the area were, indeed, evacuated as a precaution until they could shut the gas off on Clinton Street between Two Rod and Four Rod Roads. He adds the town continues to monitor the situation, and will be available for any assistance if residents need it.