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EGLE identifies source of foul odor on Detroit’s east side

Sewer system suspected in Detroit odor investigation

DETROIT – Neighbors complaining about a foul odor lingering in the air around one community on Detroit’s east side are learning a little more information about the possible source of the nauseating stench they’ve been smelling.

A Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) representative said crews had identified some sewer odor in response to several complaints.

EGLE said there are no ties to an industrial source at this time. However, they said, the primary suspect is the sewer system.

Some concerned residents asked Local 4 this week to investigate the foul odor in the area near Gratiot Avenue, between Mack Avenue and Mt. Elliott Street.

‘Find out what’s going on’: Growing number of Detroiters demand answers about foul odor (clickondetroit.com)

Some residents said they’ve smelled the mysterious odor in the air for a couple of years, but it started becoming more potent over the past few weeks.

Initially, the city of Detroit said the issue was not under its purview and referred inquiries to the State of Michigan. EGLE said it is working with the city as it continues investigating the nasty odor in the air.

Any resident who suspects a foul or suspicious odor in the air, report it immediately to the Pollution Emergency Alerting System at 1-800-292-4706 or fill out the Air Quality Complaint Form (arcgis.com).


About the Author

Demond Fernandez joined the Local 4 News team in 2023, anchoring our 5:30 p.m. newscast and reporting on important stories impacting our community. He joined WDIV from WFAA in Dallas where he was a senior reporter focusing southern Dallas communities.

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