LOS ANGELES (AP) - Authorities in Los Angeles are investigating a whistleblower’s report that the operators of an urban oil well tried to conceal a spill by covering it with dirt.
The Los Angeles Times reports Wednesday that the spill - estimated to be from 20 to 40 barrels - was discovered Saturday. The cause is unknown.
Officials found 200 plastic bags filled with oil-soaked dirt they believe were about to be removed. The well, one of a few still pumping within the city, was shut down.
The weekend inspection came after a report that the well’s owner, Vida Resources, was attempting to conceal a spill. Owner Chaim Nathan says he plans to abandon the well.
Officials say oil didn’t threaten a nearby school but harmful gases may have been released into the atmosphere.
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Information from: Los Angeles Times, http://www.latimes.com/
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