The Maryland Department of the Environment is investigating a leak of roughly 32,000 gallons of jet fuel at Joint Base Andrews, raising concerns about contamination in nearby waterways and the military base’s reporting practices.
The incident has drawn heightened scrutiny because Joint Base Andrews, located in Prince George’s County, is one of the nation’s most prominent military installations and serves as the home of Air Force One.
A department spokesperson said Monday that the leak occurred between January and March and originated from the base’s refueling system. The affected portion of the system has since been shut down while cleanup crews work to contain the damage and determine the cause.
Some of the fuel reached Piscataway Creek, which flows into the Potomac River, though officials said there is no immediate threat to drinking water because intake systems are upstream.
State officials said the base failed to promptly disclose the leaks as required
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