Gas leak prompts evacuation in Wallace

WALLACE — A natural gas leak Tuesday night forced the evacuation of several homes in the residential area of Wallace. 

Shoshone County Sheriff’s Capt. Seth Green said Tuesday evening multiple reports were received of natural gas being smelled throughout several neighborhoods in Wallace.

The line was broken at 118 River St. during a reported unpermitted dig.

Quickly, the SCSO with the assistance of Shoshone County Fire District No. 1 attempted to evacuate the approximately 35-40 homes surrounding the residence to make sure appliances, stoves, or anything that could potentially spark a potential disaster, were shut off and that people were safely moved from the area until it was safe to return. 

Crews from Avista Utilities responded quickly to get the gas shut off in the area and people were able to return home quickly, according to Green. 

“It’s pretty amazing how quickly that gas dissipates,” Green said. “Once we knew the gas was off and the gas in the air had dissipated, we were able to let everyone go back to their homes.” 

No one was injured during the incident.