ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — An ATV rider was arrested after causing a neighborhood evacuation in Atlantic City on the evening of August 26, 2024. The incident occurred when the rider struck a gas meter, leading to a hazardous gas leak.
At approximately 7:49 p.m., patrol officers responded to a report of an ATV collision on the first block of North Morris Avenue. Upon arrival, officers detected the strong odor of natural gas and immediately began evacuating residents from the area. The Atlantic City Fire Department and South Jersey Gas also responded to the scene to secure the gas leak.
The ATV rider, identified as Laron Wright, 31, of Atlantic City, was attempting to navigate an alleyway when he lost control of the vehicle, striking both a gas meter and a nearby vehicle. The resulting gas leak required nearly two hours to address, during which time residents were kept out of their homes.
Wright was arrested at the scene, and his ATV was seized. He faces charges of recklessly creating the risk of widespread injury or damage and disorderly conduct. Wright was released on a summons and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.
The Atlantic City Police Department reminded the public that these charges are accusations, and Wright is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.