Inmates were moved to another part of the facility.
Frederick County Adult Detention Center (Photo from Frederick County Sheriff’s Office)
Frederick, Md (KM) Inmates and visitors at the Frederick County Adult Detention Center were evacuated Sunday morning, May 21st, after a strong odor of gas was detected in the visitation area.
The Sheriff’s Office says correctional officers evacuated the inmates to another part of the center, and opened two recreation yards to let the gas escape. All visitations were canceled. .
Fire and rescue crews arrived at the Detention Center and found a gas leak in one of the new fittings, and shut off the main gas line.
Officials say Detention Center maintenance crews had been working on the gas lines earlier in the week. Within two hours, a maintenance worker resolved the gas leak without further incident.
After the area was properly ventilated, inmates were returned to their respective housing units and visitations were resumed.
No injuries were reported.
“The quick actions of the responding correctional officers ensured the safety of all visitors and inmates at the Detention Center,” said Lt. Col. Vic Delauter, the Warden at the Frederick County Detention Center, in a statement. “I am proud of these officers as they followed the proper protocols and safeguarded all those involved.”
By Kevin McManus