Mystery Driver Sought in Leak at SoCal Gas Storage Plant

Neighbors reported a hissing sound overnight after what appears to be an act of vandalism

Authorities are searching for a driver who apparently abandoned a commercial vehicle Monday morning near a gas leak at a Southern California Gas Company storage plant in Playa del Rey.

The leak set off an overnight investigation and woke several neighbors, who reported a hissing sound coming from the plant. Firefighters and a hazardous materials team responded to the property, located at Gulana and Manchester avenues.

The gas was turned off early Monday and firefighters said there was no threat to the community. Officials told NBC4 the damage does not appear accidental -- an abandoned truck owned by a contractor was found parked near the leak.

An email sent overnight to neighbors indicated a storage well located at the plant was potentially vandalized.

No injuries or evacuations were reported. The driver was still being sought as of Monday night.

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