Gas Spill Forces Delco Elementary School To Close Through Friday

BROOKHAVEN, PA — The major gasoline spill in Delaware County has forced a nearby school to close all week, as well as has caused the relocation of an upcoming graduation ceremony.

About 4,700 gallons of gas spilled Friday at a Gas N Go gas station by Coebourn Elementary School in Brookhaven, forcing the school to close Monday and Tuesday.

Now, the school said it will be closed through Friday, which is the last day of school.

"Although I was hopeful that we could salvage a few final days of in-person instruction for everyone at Coebourn, it is now apparent that the school will need to remain on virtual learning status for the remainder of the week, concluding the school year for students on Friday," District Superintendent George Steinhoff said in a letter to the school community. "I am disappointed that our Coebourn Cougars will not experience a traditional 'last day of school' but know that your terrific staff of teachers will make it as positive as possible, albeit virtually."

NBC10 reports the school's kindergarten graduation has been moved due to the spill. It will now be held at the municipal center.

The spill killed many fish, turtles and frogs after gas got into Sheppards Run tributary and Chester Creek.

County officials said the soil contamination was extensive due to the spill being unreported Friday into Saturday.

According to NBC10, the spill was the result of a tanker overfilling at the station.

In addition to local responders, The Delaware County Daily Times reports the EPA, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and the Delaware County Hazardous Materials Team and Emergency Services responded to the scene.