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Propane truck overturns in Ridgecrest, prompts evacuations

Propane truck overturns in Ridgecrest, prompts evacuations

Authorities closed Yates Avenue at the intersection of Craven Hill Circle on Wednesday afternoon after a propane truck overturned, prompting temporary evacuations in the area. Photo: Saga Communications/Dee Pridgen


RIDGECREST, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Authorities closed Yates Avenue at the intersection of Craven Hill Circle on Wednesday afternoon after a propane truck overturned, prompting temporary evacuations in the area.

The Black Mountain Fire Department said the crash occurred on Craven Hill Circle earlier Wednesday. The driver was not injured, and officials reported no public safety concerns.

Fire crews from Black Mountain and assisting state and local agencies responded to the scene, where a portion of Craven Hill Circle remained closed throughout the afternoon as crews worked to stabilize and remove the truck. Numerous fire apparatus were visible in the area.

Out of an abundance of caution, emergency responders established a 200-yard safety perimeter around the crash site. Residents within that zone were temporarily evacuated and transported to a safe location while crews evaluated the overturned vehicle.

“There were no injuries, and our priority from the start was public safety,” Black Mountain Fire Chief John Coffey said in a news release. “Evacuating the immediate area allowed our crews to safely evaluate and manage the scene and begin operations without additional risk to the community.”

Officials said there were no confirmed gas leaks and no ongoing danger to the public.

Emergency personnel were expected to remain on scene until the truck was removed and the area fully cleared. The fire department thanked assisting agencies and said additional updates would be provided if necessary.

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