Multiple businesses evacuated after natural gas leak reported at commercial building in Eugene

Eugene, OR – On Thursday morning, emergency crews responded to a potential natural gas leak at a multi-occupancy commercial building in Eugene. At approximately 8:47 a.m., Eugene Springfield Fire was dispatched to 525 High Street following reports of a gas odor inside the building.

Given the scale and potential risk involved, the response included four fire engines, two ladder trucks, two battalion chiefs, and an ambulance.

Upon arrival, fire crews quickly identified a natural gas leak inside the structure. The building houses six separate businesses, prompting firefighters to begin a full evacuation of all occupants as a precautionary measure.

Responders went from business to business, helping occupants exit safely and initiating ventilation procedures to begin clearing the gas from the interior spaces.

Northwest Natural Gas technicians were also on the scene and confirmed the presence of a leak. Working alongside Eugene Water and Electric Board personnel, responders spent approximately 90 minutes mitigating the situation.

During that time, crews worked to safely expel the remaining gas from the building and ensure the utility systems were secure.

Eugene Police Department assisted with traffic control in the area while crews remained on site. Officials have not released the cause of the leak, but confirmed that the situation was fully contained and there were no reported injuries.

Thanks to the coordinated efforts between Eugene Springfield Fire, Northwest Natural, EWEB, and the Eugene Police Department, the incident was resolved without escalation. All affected businesses were temporarily closed during the response, but there is no indication of long-term damage.

Officials remind the public to report any suspected gas leaks immediately and evacuate the area if there is a noticeable odor of gas. An investigation into the origin of the leak is expected to follow.