Columbia Public Schools evacuates Jefferson Middle school due to gas leak

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Officials at Columbia Public Schools have evacuated Jefferson Middle School due to a gas leak in the area causing an odor in the school.

The Columbia Fire Department is on scene after the gas main was hit by a contractor on the 500 block of Hickman Ave.

Michelle Baumstark, chief communication officer with Columbia Public Schools, says the gas leak doesn't involve the school other than the odor.

Baumstark says students are safe and will be returning to the building shortly.

Officials say that families with students at the school received a text message due to the evacuation.