Crime & Safety
Updated: RSM Shoppers, Diners, Athletes Evacuated
Patrons removed because of gas leak near the 24 Hour Fitness in Rancho Santa Margarita.
Updated on Sunday at 7 p.m.
A restaurant worker unloading supplies on Saturday accidentally hit a valve on a natural gas line, causing a leak that led to area buildings in Plaza El Paseo being evacuated, according to a spokeswoman for Southern California Gas Company.
Among those that were cleared out were 24 Hour Fitness and eateries Embarcadero California Bistro and Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant.
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The evacuation came after a break in a large gas line, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department blotter. The OCSD received a 9-1-1 call at 12:38 p.m.
The gas line was sealed an hour later, 1:38 p.m. By 2:15, emergency personnel were cleared from the location.
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The Orange County Fire Department evacuated shopping areas on both sides of El Paseo at Alma Aldea.
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