The fuel leak caused by thieves cutting the lines on a 275-gallon fuel tank at a commercial fishing pier at Lac La Belle last week has been contained and does not pose a threat to the environment. (Keweenaw County Sheriff’s Office)

SHERMAN TOWNSHIP — A fuel spill in Lac La Belle was reported to the Keweenaw County Sheriff’s Office last week, the sheriff stated in a news release. The incident occurred at a commercial fishing operator’s leasing dock.

A preliminary investigation determined that the spill occurred from a 275-gallon fuel tank that was not in use by the fishing operation.

Thieves cut the fuel lines while attempting to siphon the gas. They likely filled containers and spilled fuel on the ground, then left the remnants of the tank to spill into the lake.

Deputies are seeking assistance from the public in identifying the persons involved. Tips can be called into the Keweenaw County Sheriff’s Office at 906-337-0528.

The report stated that nearby residents reported hearing a truck idling in the area around 4 a.m. Thursday.

Sheriff Curt Pennala said the spill has been contained, and MJO Contracting is conducting the cleanup using its equipment, along with equipment from the U.S. Coast Guard.

On Tuesday, Pennala said his department has statements from a number of people and they are following up on several leads.

County deputies were assisted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources; the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; the U.S. Coast Guard; Houghton County Emergency Services coordinator Chris Van Arsdale; and MJO Contracting.