Police Searching for Chlorine Gas Canister

Montgomery County, TX - A canister of compressed chlorine gas was reportedly stolen from the Regional Water Corporation (a water treatment facility in South Montgomery County) at 16705 Gleneagle Dr. N.

Representatives from Regional Water Corporation reported to authorities that the facility had been entered sometime between the hours of midnight and 10:00 AM on Sunday, June 29.

The suspect(s) allegedly entered the facility by cutting a hole in the fence at the rear of the property, and took the gas canister from the second floor of the plant. The canister is a 150 pound stainless steel unit with a red steel cap covering a brass valve set with 150 pounds of product. The canister is clearly marked on its side with “Chlorine Gas” in black letters.

Other damage occurred to the plant, involving the turning of various valves. An electrical box cover was also forced off and a storage shed lock hasp was damaged as well.

Although investigators believe that this crime may have been committed by young adults or children, who may not be aware of the hazards associated with chlorine gas, it is important for anyone who may see or know about this crime or knows the location of this canister to notify their local authorities.

The safety threat to the public is obvious if this canister is tampered with and the chlorine is released. Immediate death can occur to those in the area.

Anyone with information should call the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 936-760-5800 or the detective office at 281-297-6510.

Crime Stoppers will pay up to a $1000 cash reward for information leading to an arrest or indictment of a felony crime. Call 800-392-STOP (7867).

Anonymous tips can also be made through the Montgomery County Crime Stoppers Web Page at the link below.

Information Source: Lt. Dan Norris, Montgomery County Sheriff's Office