Neighbors say fake PSE subcontractors take advantage of Greenwood explosion

BALLARD, Wash. — Neighbors say someone pretending to be a Puget Sound Energy subcontractor knocked on doors last weekend demanding to inspect gas meters.

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The man invoked last month's Greenwood gas explosion. Some neighbors said the man had a safety vest but no other identification.

Police said during these types of scams, the person may be scouting the home for burglary later.

"It kills me people are going to take any opportunity they can to take advantage of somebody," said Thaddeus Valentine, who owns a barber shop just a few blocks from where the explosion happened. "It's like do people not have anything better to do with their time."

PSE said its subcontractor, Hydromax, was not in the neighborhood last weekend. A spokeswoman sent KIRO 7 pictures to demonstrate what real gas surveyors look like in uniform with vests, helmets, proper ID, brochures and marked vehicles.

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PSE said if you suspect a person is pretending to be a utility worker, you should call them and call local police.

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Cox Media Group