1,000 Evacuated From Bay Area Costco Store

CONCORD, CA — An East Bay Costco store reopened for business Friday more than three hours after a hazmat situation prompted the evacuation of 1,000 people.

The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District responded shortly after 2 p.m. to Costco Wholesale at 2400 Monument Boulevard because of a refrigerant leak related to the store's air conditioning unit, the agency said on social media.

The Con Fire hazmat— hazardous materials— team and firefighters helped evacuate approximately 800 customers and 200 employees.

No injuries resulting from the incident were reported as of 4 p.m., Con Fire said.

The hazmat team needed to assess and contain the chemical leak before Contra Costa Health gave the wholesale store the OK to reopen its doors.

Shortly after 5:30 p.m., Con Fire reported that firefighters cleared the scene and the store was once again open for business.

The Monument Boulevard Costco is typically open Fridays until 8:30 p.m.