Hazmat scare empties Phoenix Amazon warehouse

PHOENIX — An Amazon warehouse on the city’s west side was evacuated early Wednesday morning after workers found a drum leaking hazardous fluids.

Phoenix Fire said the drum contained cans of butane, uses which include lighting camp fires, cartridge refills for lighters and sometimes as refrigerant. There was a possibility the drum could explode from the buildup of gas.

(Phoenix Fire Department Photo)

Employees called the fire department around 2 a.m. after noticing the 55-gallon container was swollen. A hazmat crew safely escorted the 75 employees out of the facility at 47th Avenue and Mohave Street.

A Phoenix Police robot was sent inside to drill a hole in the drum to relieve pressure and the drum was later removed.

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