Propane Tank Rupture In New Minas Results In Impaired Driving Charges

Kings District RCMP arrested a North Kentville commercial driver following an early morning hazardous materials incident in New Minas. Emergency responders were called to a commercial lot after a delivery truck drove away from a large propane tank while the delivery hose was still coupled.

The moving vehicle pulled the hose taut, ripping fittings from the stationary tank and triggering a heavy gas release. The loose line whipped across the parking area, striking a nearby car and causing minor injuries to its driver, who was treated on site by paramedics. Local fire crews isolated the valves and contained the leak.

When the propane driver returned to the scene shortly afterward, investigating officers administered a roadside breath screening. The driver failed and was transported to the New Minas RCMP detachment, where formal breath samples measured more than double the legal blood-alcohol limit. The suspect was released on an undertaking to appear in Kentville Provincial Court in November.