Propane tank, wall prevent car from plunging off cliff in Oak Harbor

Arlys Abrahamse’s car popped two tires as it “rocketed across the backyard,” into a 250-gallon propane tank, across a tennis court, over a cement retaining wall and came to rest on the edge of a 50-foot cliff overlooking Oak Harbor Bay. - Photo courtesy of Oak Harbor Fire Department
Photo courtesy of Oak Harbor Fire Department
Arlys Abrahamse’s car popped two tires as it “rocketed across the backyard,” into a 250-gallon propane tank, across a tennis court, over a cement retaining wall and came to rest on the edge of a 50-foot cliff overlooking Oak Harbor Bay.

May 18, 2010 · Updated 2:44 PM 

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Shortly after 8 p.m. Thursday, Arlys Abrahamse’s car became stuck on a Scenic Heights driveway on the outskirts of Oak Harbor. In an attempt to free the vehicle, she hit the accelerator.

Poor choice.

Her car popped two tires as it “rocketed across the backyard,” into a 250-gallon propane tank, across a tennis court, over a cement retaining wall and came to rest on the edge of a 50-foot cliff overlooking Oak Harbor Bay, said Oak Harbor Fire Capt. Robert Wallin.

Despite the property damage “she was remarkably unhurt,” Wallin said of Abrahamse.

“She’s a very lucky lady,” he said. “The propane tank kept her from going over the cliff.”

Abrahamse does not live at the residence but was visiting as a caregiver, said next-door-neighbor Cynthia Hoskins, who was in her kitchen when she heard a loud crash. She and her husband, Don, ran outside and saw smoke coming from the propane tank. Cynthia called 911 while Don shut off the gas to his neighbor’s propane tank.

“We could definitely smell propane,” Cynthia said.

Corey Oil responded to secure the tank, said Wallin. Another company will make the repairs later this week.

The tank was secured and both lanes of N. Scenic Heights Road re-opened by 9:30 p.m.

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