FLINT, Mich. June 30, 2023 — Flint-area residents were notified yesterday that a large quantity of an unknown substance was spilled into the Flint River. Booms, a guard-like tool to help contain spills, were deployed to help restrain the substance within the river. The spill happened near the Utah Avenue Bridge. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is working closely with the city of Flint as this investigation continues. In response to the spill, state Rep. Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint) issued the following statement:
“It goes without saying that it is very unfortunate that this spill has happened in our river. Your safety, and our local area, is my priority. Residents should avoid contact with the water until further notice as the situation is addressed and tended to. Residents should also be aware that the city of Flint’s municipal water system is not connected to the Flint River, so this does not impact Flint’s drinking water in any way. I will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds to determine what the substance is and how the incident took place.”