Gas Well Failure Prompts Evacuation Near Douglas

GLENROCK, Wyo. (AP) — Several dozen residents near Douglas have evacuated because of a problem at a natural gas well.

The Associated Press  reported that large amounts of gas were coming out of the ground on Tuesday night but it wasn't immediately clear what happened.

The owner of the well, Chesapeake Energy, said there was a "well control incident" but hasn't released any details yet.

A Converse County sheriff's dispatcher said residents of a subdivision were told about the problem Tuesday and given the option to stay or evacuate.

KCWY-TV reports that over 50 of the nearly 400 residents left their homes. Residents told the station that the sound of escaping gas could be heard six miles away.

Chesapeake Energy says no workers were injured and that it was working to bring the well under control.