Copper thieves to blame for nitrogen leak in Camp Washington

Police say copper thieves are to blame for a liquid nitrogen leak that forced residents from their homes. 

At 2:23 A.M.. a Cincinnati Fire Department Medic unit discovered a nitrogen leak while returning from transporting a patient to the hospital. A 1500 gallon nitrogen tank at Queen City Steel Treating Co. at 2980 Spring Grove was leaking nitrogen into the air. Nearby residents were evacuated or sheltered on upper floors due to the potential of oxygen displacement.

The Cincinnati Police worked with the Fire Department to isolate the area and allow the nitrogen to evaporate. Spring Grove and nearby streets were closed until 6:00 A.M..

There were no injuries. Approximately 42 firefighters were required to isolate the area and mitigate the emergency.

It appears that thieves may have broke into a secure area and were attempting to steal copper.  The exact cause is still under investigation.