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Update: Mystery substance discovered in Red Butte Creek, officials investigating source

Posted at 12:14 PM, Nov 11, 2014
and last updated 2014-11-11 17:33:45-05

Oil Red Butte Creek 2014

Note: Authorities first reported the substance was oil Tuesday. Crews later told Fox 13 the substance was not oil and needed further investigation. 

SALT LAKE CITY – Authorities are investigating a mystery substance that has appeared in Red Butte Creek.

In June of 2010, a pipeline leaked over 34,000 gallons of oil into the creek.

However, officials said the gunk that looks like oil actually is something else.

The photo above shows booms set up along Red Butte Creek near 1150 E. Harvard Ave.

Crews are now removing the booms after determining the unknown substance isn’t oil.

Homeowner Marina Riedel  said a construction crew first noticed the murky development while working on a project at a nearby LDS church.

Officials have not confirmed where the unidentified goo came from at this time.

Crews have taken samples to investigate.

Check back with Fox 13 for the latest updates.