Some evacuated residents are beginning to return to their homes Thursday as Contra Costa County Fire Protection District officials continue to investigate a large cache of hazardous materials found in a San Pablo backyard shed.
The evacuation area, originally a six-block radius around the home on Stanton Avenue where chemicals were found, has been reduced as authorities continue their investigation into the hazardous chemicals. Residents living along Miner Avenue, 11th Street and Palmer Avenue can return home, said San Pablo Police Capt. Brian Bubar.
Police said there is no evidence at this time to suggest the chemicals were used in the production of drugs or weapons. The exact purpose of the chemicals is still under investigation.
Those still affected by the evacuation order will have opportunities to return to their homes with a police escort for an hour to gather more of their belongings or care for pets while the order is still in place, police and fire officials said. No hazardous materials will be moved or processed while residents are allowed back in their homes.
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The owner of the home that police and fire officials are investigating passed away several months ago and the chemicals were discovered Wednesday by his brother, who was in the process of clearing out the house, fire officials said.
Mark Evangelista lives next door and was forced to evacuate.
He was allowed to go back Thursday afternoon to pick up some belongings, but had to leave again.
"We got clothes, we got medications, couple of toiletries," he said.
Jonny Aguilar, who lives along 11th Avenue was able to return home but said is still shaken up.
"I feel very scared," he said. "Chemicals, very dangerous, you know?"
One of the challenges was identifying the chemicals before transporting them, which ranged from explosives to flammable liquids.
Fire officials said the chemicals are being sent to a facility where they’ll be disposed of.
The goal is to get residents back home as soon as possible, but safety is the top priority.
“Their safety is of the utmost importance and we want to make sure we could guarantee that, we’re working hard to ensure that,” said Contra Costa County Fire District Captain, Chris Toler.
The Contra Costa College gym is open to evacuated residents.
