Several Barrels Containing Hazardous Materials Illegally Dumped In Pepperell

PEPPERELL (CBS) -- Police are investigating the illegal dumping of hazardous materials early Saturday evening in Pepperell.

The town's conservation commission and the Environmental Protection Agency were called to Lorden Lane shortly before 5:30 p.m. after a resident notified police that several barrels were disposed of in the area.

Several barrels containing an unknown liquid were illegally dumped off Lorden Lane Saturday in Pepperell. (Photo credit: Pepperell Police)

Investigators believe the liquid is a combination of used motor oil and grease, but the EPA is testing it to determine exactly what it is.

Investigators are trying to identify a liquid found off Lorden Lane Saturday in Pepperell. (Photo credit: Pepperell Police)

On Sunday, three inches of top soil were removed from the ground by the EPA. Investigators don't believe it spread enough to raise alarm.

The property abuts town conservation land and there are no homes close enough to cause concern, according to a statement released on Sunday evening.

Anyone with information is asked to call Pepperell Police at (978) 433-2424.