WHITEHOUSE, Ohio – Crews from the Whitehouse Fire Department and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have successfully contained a fuel spill that contaminated Blue Creek on Thursday afternoon. The spill occurred as a result of demolition work at the former Ardagh Metal Packaging facility.
According to Ohio EPA spokesperson Katie Boyer, the fuel leaked into a ditch behind the facility, which then drained into Blue Creek. The spill prompted an immediate response from both local and state agencies, with efforts focused on containing the leak and preventing further environmental damage.
Fire department officials confirmed that cleanup operations were underway and would continue overnight into Friday. Crews have been working diligently to address the spill, although the exact cause of the leak and the volume of fuel released are still under investigation.
Environmental officials have emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring to ensure that the creek’s ecosystem is not permanently harmed. While the situation has been contained, the investigation into the cause of the spill will determine the next steps for both cleanup and any potential remediation efforts.
The Ohio EPA has not yet provided further details on the long-term environmental impact or any potential penalties for the responsible parties. Local residents and nearby businesses are advised to avoid the affected area as cleanup continues.
The incident serves as a reminder of the environmental risks associated with industrial demolition and the importance of swift action in mitigating potential harm to local waterways.