Officials report no fatalities after Oakland County explosion destroys 18 condo units: "Absolute miracle"
(CBS DETROIT) — Oakland County officials say 18 condo units were destroyed in an explosion in Orion Township Tuesday evening.
Officials provided an update on Wednesday, adding that no fatalities were reported.
"It is an absolute miracle if you have seen that scene that we are talking currently about no fatalities," said Township Supervisor Chris Barnett.
Township Fire Chief Ryan Allen says two people, a 72-year-old man and a 75-year-old woman, remain hospitalized. One resident is listed in a non-critical condition, and the other is listed in serious and stable condition.
Several others suffered minor injuries as well.
Barnett acknowledged an Amazon driver who helped one of the residents after the explosion. Barnett says the man was not at the news conference on Wednesday but left a message with the township, saying he hopes to meet with the residents again soon.
The Oakland County Sheriff's Office says the explosion was reported at about 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Keatington New Town Association condominium complex on Waldon Road, between Joslyn and Baldwin roads.
Allen says 18 units were either completely destroyed or will need significant investigation to ensure their safety for occupants. Investigators are questioning the stability of 12 additional units.
Allen says investigators are working to determine the official cause of the explosion. A complete investigation could take a week.
Consumers Energy was sending a crew to the scene Wednesday to investigate the cause of the explosion.
Authorities urge anyone displaced by the explosion and in need of support to call the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767 or Orion Township at 248-391-0304, ext. 2009.
The township is also working with Love Inc. (248-693-4357) and Woodside Bible Church (248-481-8069) to help families.
