Were you wondering what all the ruckus was?

At approximately 9:15 am Thursday, the Cayce Department of Public Safety received a call regarding a gas leak near the Cayce Masonic Lodge.

Cayce Public Safety officers rushed to the scene. Seven homes around the perimeter of the Lodge were evacuated while city personnel searched for the source of the leak.

The gas leak resulted in the closing of 12th Street from Naples Avenue to Walter Price Road. Also closed were Holland Avenue down Poplar Street and all side streets within a one block radius. Police asked drivers to find an alternate route.

The gas to the Masonic Lodge was turned off and the leak was found. All roads were opened by Thursday afternoon.

THE WEST COLUMBIA Police Department issued a press release that said it is committed to protecting the community against the spread of the corona virus. The department is following public health recommendations to limit close contact with others.

Using the guidelines from SC Gov. Henry McMaster, the WCPD will adjust its response to certain calls for service in the City of West Columbia. These slight changes reduce the risk of officers and the public spreading germs throughout the city.

The non-emergency phone number for the Police Department is 803-794-0721.