In the aftermath of a rainstorm last week, a startling revelation came to light as officials discovered that a Camden gas station’s fuel supply was contaminated with a staggering 58 percent water.
The Conoco station, situated on Admiral Wilson Boulevard, faced significant consequences as 36 vehicles experienced breakdowns or issues after refueling on January 10. The incident triggered a swift response from Camden County authorities, launching an investigation into the fuel supply.
The location of the gas station on Admiral Wilson Boulevard became crucial, as the street had encountered flooding during the storm the night before. Officials confirmed issues with a total of 39 vehicles that had filled up at the Conoco station, underscoring the severity of the situation.
As a consequence, Conoco now faces a fine, the amount of which is yet to be determined. Taking swift action, the gas station voluntarily closed its doors on January 10. However, before reopening, several crucial steps must be completed to ensure the safety of future fueling.
To rectify the situation, Conoco is obligated to pump out all contaminated fuel and initiate remediation efforts within the tanks. The county Division of Weights and Measures will play a pivotal role in the reopening process. They will conduct tests on a sample of newly delivered fuel, allowing Conoco to resume operations only if the sample passes rigorous lab testing.
The contaminated-gas incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring the integrity of fuel supplies, particularly in the aftermath of adverse weather conditions. As Camden County takes measures to address the situation, motorists are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the status of affected gas stations in the area.
