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.

Find out what's happening in Rancho Santa Margaritawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

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.

Find out what's happening in Rancho Santa Margaritawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Orange County Fire Department evacuated shopping areas on both sides of El Paseo at Alma Aldea.


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