A HAZMAT team responded to an acid leak at the Cleveland Cliffs Butler Works plant on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. The leak originated from a process tank within the plant’s internal containment area and was described as minor by Cleveland Cliffs officials. Cleanup efforts are underway by the company. The Butler Township Volunteer Fire District and local fire departments responded to the incident. Cleveland Cliffs officials stated that the spill was contained within the facility and did not enter the Connoquenessing Creek. An initial 911 call reported that acid may have leaked into the Connoquenessing Creek, creating a discrepancy with the company’s account. According to wpxi.com, Hazmat crews responded following a report that acid entered the Connoquenessing Creek, further contradicting the company’s statement. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) was called to the scene as a precaution, according to wpxi.com. Cleveland Cliffs stated that if runoff had entered the creek, the facility would be responsible for notifying downstream residents and businesses, according to butlereagle.com. The company also said there are no impacts to production from the spill, according to wpxi.com. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency records note that the Cleveland Cliffs Butler Works site has undergone corrective action work and long-term groundwater monitoring tied to historical waste management units, according to hoodline.com.