Petroleum Product Spills Into Popo Agie River in Lander

The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality is investigating after a petroleum product was spilled into the middle fork of the Popo Agie River in Lander Tuesday night.

Lander police and firefighters were called to the Main Street bridge after a resident reported smelling gasoline fumes coming from the river.

Wyoming DEQ spokesman Keith Guille said the chemical is a refined petroleum product, possibly gasoline.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is currently conducting cleanup efforts which includes placing booms and skimmers in the river. Guille said the investigation is a "high priority."

"We recognize that finding answers in this is imperative," Guille said.

Guille added that a nearby gas station is being looked at as a possible source for the leak. However, it's too early to say for sure.

South First Street is closed at its intersection with Main Street.