U.S. Park Police, Arlington County Fire Department, and Alexandria Fire Department all responded when someone called in concerns about an odd smell. Crews found the small spill in a creek near the entrance to the island and put booms in the water to contain it. Arrangements are being made to reinforce the boom when the tide changes so no containment is lost.
U.S. Park Police spokesman Sgt. David Schlosser says tests are being done on the substance to determine exactly what it is. Based on the odor, coloration and gelling it is believed to be a petroleum product, possibly a type of diesel fuel.