Multiple drivers in south Edmonton had their vehicles severely damaged after filling up at an Esso/Circle K gas station that dispensed gasoline mixed with large amounts of water around April 14–15, 2026.
The affected station is located at 8403 Ellerslie Road SW, near Summerside Drive. Mechanics who examined vehicles reported that fuel samples taken from tanks were approximately a 50/50 mix of water and gasoline. The contaminated fuel prevented proper combustion, causing engines to stall, misfire, or fail to start entirely.
Colton William, a technician at Kross Mitsubishi, told CTV News Edmonton he serviced at least seven affected vehicles. He explained: “The mix that we’re seeing is about 50 per cent water and then 50 per cent fuel, which is enough that it actually won’t combust and spark inside of the engine. At that point, your vehicle is not drivable.”
Several other repair shops across Edmonton also reported taking in dozens of vehicles with similar symptoms after customers had fueled up at the same location.
Cause and Company Response
Circle K (operated by Couche-Tard) confirmed that water had intruded into the station’s underground storage tank. The company shut down the pumps immediately upon learning of the issue and conducted testing.
In a statement to CTV News Edmonton, a Circle K spokesperson said: “We regret the inconvenience this has caused and are actively supporting affected customers through our claims process, while continuing to address the underlying issue at the site.”
The company is now replacing the contaminated fuel, cleaning the tanks, upgrading water-detection systems, replacing pump filters, and having the entire system inspected by a third-party technician before the station can reopen.
Circle K has also confirmed it will reimburse customers for repair costs and is handling claims directly. Affected drivers are advised to contact the company’s customer service at 1-855-276-1947.
The incident appears to have been caused by water leaking into the underground tanks — a known but uncommon issue with fuel storage infrastructure — and not by deliberate contamination.
As of the latest reports, the station remains offline for cleanup and repairs.
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