Gas line ruptured as car crashes in Warwick.

Sep 14, 2024 at 5:53 PM

Dramatic Crash Sparks Gas Leak Chaos in Warwick

In a startling turn of events, a car careened into multiple parked vehicles in Warwick, Rhode Island, rupturing a gas line and prompting a swift emergency response. The incident, which unfolded on a seemingly ordinary Saturday afternoon, has left the community shaken and authorities scrambling to address the aftermath.

Catastrophe Narrowly Averted as Crash Triggers Gas Leak

Chaotic Scene as Car Collides with Parked Vehicles

The incident began when a driver, for reasons yet to be determined, lost control of their vehicle while traveling down West Shore Road. The car collided with four unoccupied parked cars in the Sam's Inn parking lot, pushing them into the building itself. The force of the impact was so severe that it ruptured a nearby gas line, setting off a chain reaction of emergency responses.Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the sound of screeching tires and the sudden impact echoing through the area. "It all happened so fast," recounted one bystander. "One minute, the parking lot was quiet, and the next, there was this loud crash and cars were being pushed into the restaurant."

Rapid Evacuation and Emergency Efforts

In the aftermath of the crash, all employees and patrons within the Sam's Inn restaurant were quickly evacuated as a precautionary measure. The restaurant remains closed as authorities continue to assess the damage and ensure the safety of the premises.Rhode Island Energy crews were immediately dispatched to the scene, working tirelessly to cut open a large section of Yates Road in order to repair the ruptured gas line. The swift action of the emergency responders was crucial in preventing a potentially catastrophic situation from unfolding.

Fortunate Escape for Nearby Occupants

While the driver of the car that caused the initial collision was rushed to a nearby hospital as a precautionary measure, authorities confirmed that no one else was injured in the incident. This includes the occupants of the car that was struck in the Shell gas station parking lot next door, as well as the patrons and staff within the Sam's Inn restaurant.Eyewitnesses expressed relief and gratitude that the situation did not result in any serious injuries or casualties. "Everybody is so lucky that nobody died here today," remarked one onlooker. "It's a miracle that more people weren't hurt, given the extent of the damage."

Ongoing Investigation and Restoration Efforts

As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, authorities have assured the public that traffic is moving normally on West Shore Road, and the Shell gas station remains fully operational. However, the Sam's Inn restaurant remains closed as the necessary repairs and safety assessments are carried out."We are working diligently to restore the area to its normal state and ensure the safety of the community," stated a spokesperson for the Warwick Police Department. "Our priority is to thoroughly investigate the incident and provide any necessary support to those affected."The dramatic events of this Saturday afternoon have left an indelible mark on the Warwick community, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the swift response of emergency services. As the cleanup and restoration efforts continue, residents and local businesses alike await the return to normalcy, grateful that the situation did not escalate into an even greater tragedy.