JBS plant in Louisville's Butchertown neighborhood evacuated after ammonia leak

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A manufacturing plant in Louisville's Butchertown neighborhood was evacuated Wednesday morning after a reported ammonia leak.

According to a MetroSafe supervisor, firefighters from Louisville Fire & Rescue were called to the JBS plant at 1200 Story Avenue at about 7:30 a.m. Tuesday.

The plant was evacuated as a precaution. There are no reports of any injuries.

Lt. Col. Jason Golladay of Louisville Fire & Rescue said the leak had been stopped, and firefighters were working to ventilate the building to ensure that the air was safe. That process could take several hours, Golladay said.

Water and food was provided to workers who were waiting outside. EMS remained on the scene to provide assistance if needed.

A JBS representative released the following statement after the leak:

"This morning, there was an ammonia leak at our Louisville pork production facility, which resulted in evacuation of the plant. We are grateful to the first responders who provided quick assistance and support. The facility is still closed at this point in time, and we are investigating the cause of the incident."

This story will be updated if more information becomes available.