Police in Smithfield are investigating a gas leak caused by a copper thief. Around 6:00AM Wednesday, an officer was on patrol and discovered an active gas leak behind Angelo’s Pizza at 1265 N. Brightleaf Boulevard.
The Smithfield Fire Department responded and helped bring the leak under control.
Police said the leak was caused by a thief who stole $400 worth of copper piping near the gas tank. Officials estimate about 145 gallons of gas escaped from the tank before the leak was stopped.
No arrests have been made but the incident remains under investigation.
