Gas Leak Prompts Rothbury Evacuation

One of Avalon Rothbury's seven apartment buildings was evacuated Friday night as dozens of firefighters searched for the source for a gas leak severe enough to threaten a massive explosion.

A resident of the 203-unit complex on Rothbury Drive called 9-1-1 shortly after 6 p.m. to report the smell of gas. When firefighters arrived, the caller had left their apartment. Unable to immediately find the leak amid a "very strong odor” throughout all three floors, first responders called for backup and began evacuating the entire building, said Battalion Chief Shane Darwick.

At least six fire engines deployed to the Montgomery Village complex while scores of Rothbury residents looked on.

“It’s a dangerous call,” Darwick said. “A light switch, any spark, and the whole thing can go.”

Firefighters shut off the flow of gas to the building, Darwick said. By 7pm, technicians from Washington Gas were on the scene trying to find the leak.