COVINGTON, LA (AP) — State police say Interstate 12 has been shut down in both directions near Goodbee community in St. Tammany Parish as Hazmat crews investigate a suspected ammonia leak at the Diversified Foods just west of Covington.
An Al Copeland-founded business, Diversified Foods manufactures all of the spices seasonings used by Popeyes Fried Chicken outlets.
Trooper Dustin Dwight says the plant has been evacuated and no injuries are reported.
Dwight said crews are still evaluating the possible leak and he did not know how long the Interstate would be closed.
State police, the Department of Environmental Quality, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, and St. Tammany Fire Districts 4 and 13 are at the site on Louisiana Highway 1085 just north of Interstate 12.
Diversified Foods and Seasonings, LLC corporate headquarters is located at 1115 N. Causeway Blvd. in Mandeville, LA.