On September 12, 2014 at approximately 7:15 pm the Ville Platte Police Department responded to a call regarding a possible chemical spill. Upon arrival officers and Ville Platte Fire Department personnel detected a smell of ammonia in the area and began evacuating nearby residents as a safety precaution.  Louisiana State Police and Louisiana State Police Hazmat division were notified of the situation. The Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office also assisted with this incident. The Detective on call responded to begin an investigation.   The business owner reported hearing a noise and went outside to investigate.  When he went out of the door an unknown chemical hit his legs causing burns to both legs.  He was transported by family to Mercy Regional Medical Center.

Approximately 12 people were advised of a mandatory evacuation on East Washington Street and Railroad Avenue.  Others in the area of East LaSalle Street evacuated voluntarily.  Hazmat repaired the line and cleaned the scene and some residents were allowed to return to their residences that were not on East Washington at approximately 11:30 p.m.  Residents on East Washington were not allowed to return to their residences at that time due to the strong odor from the leak.   After Hazmat cleaned and cleared the area all residents but one were allowed to return home. 

Chief Neal Lartigue was on the scene during the incident and stated that he appreciates the assistance and fast response by everyone involved and that safety of residents was the first priority.  “People were evacuated for their safety and those not allowed to return to their residences that evening were kept away to protect them from inhaling fumes because a strong odor remained in the area.”

The cause of the leak is still under investigation.

Chief Lartigue asks residents to be aware of their surroundings and report suspicious activity by calling the Ville Platte Police Department at 363-1313.  Your call will remain anonymous.