Police

Few gas rage incidents reported in Riverhead

Riverhead, Superstorm Sandy, gas lines, Long Island
MICHAEL WHITE PHOTO | A gas line that stretched from a Hess station on Edwards Avenue and around River Road on Friday.

Unlike elsewhere on Long Island, where angst at the gas lines after superstorm Sandy reportedly devolved into fights in some cases, Riverhead lines were relatively civil during the past week.

At least seven disputes were reported at gas stations in town in the past week, according to Riverhead police reports.

But Riverhead police Lt. David Lessard said the incidents were quickly resolved.

“Just guys quibbling over who was in line,” Lt. Lessard said.

One dispute erupted into a fight, but Lt. Lessard said that incident was fueled by a prior dispute between the subjects.

On Saturday during the height of the gas shortage, five disturbances were reported at gas stations around town, including two at a Valero station and two at the Citgo station on West Main Street.

Two more incidents were reported on Sunday, according to police reports.

Lt. Lessard town police were at local stations as “more of a presence” to keep things under control and direct traffic.

“From what we’ve seen, everything’s been pretty orderly,” he said.

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