Gas leak forces evacuations in N.Ky.

ERLANGER, Ky - ‪Duke Energy officials say that a gas leak that closed busy Mineola Pike in Boone County for several hours Wednesday afternoon has now been stopped.

‪As many as 10 homes and businesses along Mineola Pike were asked to evacuate around 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, after Duke Energy workers noticed white bubbles coming from the road bed.‬

‪At one point, a hissing noise could be heard several hundred feet away and workers could be seen taking several steps back. But then, they went back to work.‬

‪Joyce Fleek and her husband were among the Mineola Pike residents evacuated. She said that she and her husband didn't smell any gas in their house or basement. They didn't know there was a problem until police and Duke Energy workers asked them to evacuate.‬

‪As rain and wind approached, workers kept worked in the trench they created. At 5:40 p.m., the Duke Energy workers cleared the scene and reopened Mineola Pike to traffic.‬

‪The Kleeks were able to return to their home.‬

‪Duke Energy says service to one homeowner has been shut off. A metal plate has been placed over the trench. Full repairs on the pavement where the leak was will continue once weather improves.

The incident remains under investigation.

No one was injured.

Stay with 9 News and WCPO.com for updates.

View Larger Map