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Lawrence elementary students evacuated after suspected gas odor near kitchen and furnace room

Early Tuesday morning, all Lawrence elementary students and staff were evacuated after a suspected gas leak prompted emergency response. The precaution was taken after firefighters detected the odor of gas near the kitchen and furnace room.

Students and staff outside an elementary school while firefighters investigate near a side utility area.

At about 9 a.m., the Lawrence Fire and Rescue Department responded to calls reporting a potential gas leak. Fire Chief Todd Himmelberg and several volunteer firemen inspected the area and, based on what they smelled, ordered an immediate evacuation of the building.

Staff evacuated students to the east side of the school while firefighters investigated the source of the odor.