As new video shows, an SUV driver accidentally backed into a gasoline pump at a station in Pasadena Sunday afternoon.
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That small hit, combined with an apparent malfunction of the shutoff mechanism, led to some 1,300 gallons of gasoline spilling out around the gas station, into a storm drain and eventually into the Alhambra Wash.
The fuel continued flowing south, creating an environmental hazard that generated noxious fumes for residents of Pasadena, Alhambra and San Marino. Public safety alerts went out, warning residents to stay indoors and keep their windows closed.
"Last night we were having a little gingerbread party and all our alarms went off," said local resident Tanya Brown. "I went outside to see what was going on. It smelled a little bit bad. I thought, oh my goodness, I don't want to get sick, so I shut the door."
Gasoline spills into Pasadena storm drain
Almost 1,000 gallons of gasoline spill into Pasadena storm drain
Lisa Derderian, spokesperson for the city of Pasadena, said because of how the crash happened, emergency crews were unable to use the emergency shut-off and they had to turn off the power to the station.
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Hazmat teams were called out to try to recover as much gasoline as possible and contain the environmental damage.
Cleanup efforts were expected to continue at least through Monday afternoon.