A hydrochloric acid leak at a metal finishing plant Tuesday forced the evacuation of 3,000 residents and schoolchildren, authorities said. At least one injury was reported.

The acid leaked from a tank on the roof of Reilly Plating Co. and created a cloud over the area, authorities said. The leak was contained in an open 500-gallon container beneath it, Fire Chief Scott Wellman said.

Lori Stallings, a spokeswoman for Oakwood Hospital and Medical Center, said the hospital was treating a resident for respiratory symptoms, and the patient was in stable condition.

Three schools in the half-square-mile evacuation zone were cleared as a precaution. Students were taken to an ice arena and a college.

Authorities let residents return about 9:30 p.m.

Hydrochloric acid is a highly corrosive liquid that can cause burns if it comes into direct contact with skin or eyes.