TAMPA, Fla. — Employees and shoppers at the Publix Super Market at Gandy Shopping Center were evacuated after a HazMat incident occurred behind the store Tuesday afternoon, according to Tampa Fire Rescue.
According to officials, the incident was caused by a construction worker who struck a line nearby.
⚠️Himes Ave. lanes are shut down Southbound between W Gandy & W Fielder St. for a HazMat incident behind the Publix on Gandy. Please find alternate routes⚠️
— Tampa Fire Rescue (@TampaFireRescue) October 18, 2022
Out of an abundance of caution, the Publix is being evacuated. Crews and @TECOPeoplesGas on scene.#TampaBayTraffic
Out of an abundance of caution, the people inside the Publix were evacuated as rescue crews arrived on-scene. Southbound lanes on Himes Avenue between West Gandy Boulevard and West Fielder Street were also shut down in response to the incident.
Officials were able to get the hazard under control. There were no reported injuries.
The store and the road lanes are set to re-open later in the afternoon.