The Roanoke Rapids Sanitary District had a wastewater spill of approximately 12,000 gallons from the wastewater collection system, manhole 69, in the 700 block of Virginia Avenue Monday.

According to a news release, untreated wastewater spilled into the waters of the state tributary to the Roanoke River in the Roanoke River Basin when tree roots ruptured a 10-inch diameter clay sewer pipe.

Preparation is being made for all known repairs necessary to eliminate the source of damage to return the pipe system to service and minimize further discharge.

The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality was notified of the event on Monday and is reviewing the matter.