LEETONIA – More than 250 customers still are without natural gas in Leetonia and Washingtonville as of 6:15 p.m. Wednesday due to a major gas leak.

According to Leetonia mayor Kevin Siembida, a gas transmission line was struck on Lisbon Street in the area of Somer, leading to an evacuation of that area.

In a social media post, the Leetonia fire department, which was overseeing the incident along with help from Columbiana fire, asked residents to temporarily vacate their homes and to refrain from smoking in the area.

Properties within a 500-radius of the leak were vacated with the assistance of first responders, as gas had leaked into the sewer system.

Siembida confirmed Wednesday afternoon that third-party contractors for OmniFiber, a company that is installing fiberoptic internet in the area, had inadvertely struck the Columbus gas line, although he hadn’t revealed when.

Several people alleged that the odor had been in the area before Wednesday when it was reported.

As of 6 p.m. Leetonia fire chief Larry Hephner urged all residents, especially of Somer Street, to evacuate their homes. Siembida stated those in need of a place to go to village fire hall.

Somer Street residents were evacuated to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

OmniFiber had posted a bond with the village before beginning work.

The city of Columbiana, as well as other communities, have been working with OmniFiber. Columbiana City manager Lance Willard verified that the city has worked out pole attachments and the right of way, and they are preparing to submit permits allowing the city’s electric engineers to evaluate proposed work.

OmniFiber is a internet service company based out of Mason, Ohio.

Ben Cutler from.Columbia Gas also urged customers to follow the directives of Columbia and emergency crews, assessing and remedying the situation.

Once all work is completed, Columbia Gas will start the restoration process.

As of 7 p.m., Leetonia fire officials announced the gas leak had been contained and directed residents to the village and their online presences for updated information.

Customers with critical needs should contact Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077.