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Ventura, Calif. – An underground contamination source near Monmouth Way, between Harbor and Pierpont Boulevards, has been identified as the cause of a hazardous materials incident that occurred in the Pierpont neighborhood on September 19, 2024. A gasoline substance was found to have leaked from a nearby property into the sewer line. The property owner is investigating and isolating the exact cause and location of the leak.
Ventura Water crews continue repairing a 300-foot section of the sewer line impacted by the leak. Road closures remain in effect at Monmouth Way and the southbound 101 exit. Repairs are anticipated to be completed by Monday, September 23, 2024.
Early reports of gas-like odors were received by Ventura Water on September 13, 2024, in the area of Bayshore Avenue. Ventura Water and Ventura Fire crews immediately began investigations and sampling of the sewer line for multiple days and were able to find trace amounts of the odor but could not locate or identify the odor's origin.
Staff continued to monitor the situation in the days following the first reporting. On September 19, additional readings indicated elevated levels of atmospheric gas in the sewer line, elevating the situation to an emergency response.
Emergency personnel promptly issued evacuations, warnings, and shelter-in-place orders while securing the scene. After several hours of monitoring and ventilating the sewer line, hazardous material teams confirmed it was safe for residents to return home. All orders were lifted by 5:56 p.m.
Ventura Fire and Ventura Water located the previously unknown substance leaking into the sewer line along Monmouth Way, approximately one mile away from where the initial reports were received. Crews closed the road to isolate the sewer line and further investigate. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Ventura County Public Health also responded to the scene, conducting tests and assisting in monitoring the situation.
As investigations and remediation measures continue, the City of Ventura remains committed to safeguarding residents and the environment.
For additional information and the latest updates on this incident, please visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/EmergencyAlert.
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