02/25/2026
Middleborough Fire Department Responds to Reported Gas Leak at Supermarket; Shopping Plaza Evacuated
MIDDLEBOROUGH — Chief Owen F. Thompson reports that the Middleborough Fire Department responded Wednesday afternoon to a supermarket in town for a possible gas leak.
At approximately 12:05 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 25, Middleborough 911 received reports of a strong odor of gas in the Hannaford Supermarket parking lot at 10 Merchants Way.
Middleborough Fire and EMS were dispatched to investigate.
Upon arrival, emergency crews confirmed a heavy odor of natural gas in the parking lot, as well as inside both Hannaford’s Supermarket and Aubuchon Hardware store.
“Based on the levels of natural gas inside the structures, all the stores in the strip mall were evacuated,” said Chief Thompson. “Our crews located a gas meter at the rear of the building that had been dislodged from the supply line coming from the ground.”
Middleborough Fire crews were able to safely shut the gas line down and start ventilation of the buildings. They remained on scene while Middleborough Gas and Electric secured the supply line and meter.
A preliminary investigation determined a snowplow likely caused the meter dislocation.
“Our crews did a great job quickly locating and shutting off the natural gas line,” said Chief Thompson. “We were extremely fortunate in this situation. The levels of gas in the hardware store were well into the explosive range, and we were able to evacuate and ventilate without any significant issues.”
No injuries were reported and all crews cleared the scene by approximately 1:30 p.m.
“It’s extremely important, following major inclement weather and at all other times, that residents remain vigilant when it comes to the potential dangers of natural gas,” said Chief Thompson. “If you smell gas, call 911, and we’ll check it out. Always better safe, than sorry, when it comes to flammable gas and potential leaks.”
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https://middleboroughfire.com/2026/02/25/middleborough-fire-department-responds-to-reported-gas-leak-at-supermarket-shopping-plaza-evacuated/
