More Than 50 Homes Damaged In Suspected Gas Explosion

May 8, 2014

More than 50 homes damaged in suspected gas explosion

A woman did not smell anything as she was brushing her teeth. She heard a pop, and saw a fire outside her bedroom window. She called 911, and began walking across the street when the explosion that completely destroyed a home, and damaged another 50 homes within a quarter mile occurred.

Miraculously, no one was killed or seriously injured in this explosion in Illinois. 

Investigators, whom are being assisted by the state fire marshal and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, suspect natural gas as the cause. As such, they are looking at gas service and other materials in and around, the house. The utility company confirms that, before the blast, they had a technician in the area examining the smell of gas.

About six homes near the explosion were severely damaged; another six are no longer fit to live in. Overall damage is estimated to be in the millions of dollars. It should be noted again that no one was seriously injured or killed in this explosion, however, that is not always the case in such catastrophic incidents.

Investigations are still underway as to the cause of this serious explosion. The process in recovering from such an explosion will be a long and tough one. It remains to be seen if an organization or individual should be held liable for the extensive damages caused by this explosion.

While the cause of an explosion is being determined, consulting with a Pennsylvania attorney may help you determine your best next steps, while you restore your life in the aftermath. The victims of fires and explosions and their loved ones often have the right to hold negligent parties accountable for their losses.