House Is Total Loss After Potential Gas Leak Causes Explosion In Clarion County
RIMERSBURG, Pa. (KDKA) -- Investigators are trying to figure out what caused a home in Clarion County to explode, sending neighbors scrambling to grab their things and evacuate.
The explosion happened Thursday morning at a home on Chestnut Street in Rimersburg.
"Just one big kaboom," said neighbor Diane Frame. "Then, all of a sudden, here comes all the fire trucks, cops and everyone else."
Dozens of firefighters, police and Columbia Gas crews filled Chestnut Street.
The Rimersburg assistant fire chief believes the explosion happened due to a gas leak. He said the homeowners were at work, and their two kids were in school when the explosion happened around 8 a.m.
Because of the leak, and as a safety precaution, the whole street was evacuated.
"I was laying on my bed with my cat. I didn't hear the explosion," said neighbor Susan Clark.
KDKA's Amy Wadas Reports --
Posted by KDKA-TV | CBS Pittsburgh on Thursday, October 29, 2020
The neighbors who were evacuated were sent to the local fire hall and will stay there until they're allowed back inside their homes.
"We will see that they're fed and their needs are met," said Mayor Tim Yeany.
Columbia Gas said gas was shut off to all the homes on Chestnut Street as a safety precaution. Crews are going around to each home to make sure they are safe.
The assistant fire chief says the home is a total loss. He said the exterior walls pulled away from the stairwell. The front porch was leaning as well.
Four dogs were evacuated from the basement.
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