HomeNewsDamaged Pipeline Triggers Gas Explosion, Leveling Home in Woodstock, Illinois

Damaged Pipeline Triggers Gas Explosion, Leveling Home in Woodstock, Illinois

10/10/2023

(P&GJ) — A gas explosion occurred in the northern suburbs of Woodstock on Monday, resulting in the destruction of a residence and damage to at least eight other structures, including a church and a school, NBC Chicago 5 reported.

The explosion was triggered by a gas main being accidentally struck during work on a sewer line. Authorities reported no major injuries, as the home where the explosion happened was unoccupied at the time.

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According to NBC Chicago 5, the situation developed around 12:35 p.m. when the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District responded to the emergency at the intersection of Tryon and Lincoln streets. A crew working on a sewer line unintentionally damaged the natural gas pipeline.

Firefighters took precautions by evacuating St. Mary Catholic Church and advising locals to remain indoors until Nicor Gas fixed the gas leak.

The incident took a turn at 2:38 p.m. when an explosion rocked a residence on Lincoln Street, destroying it and igniting fires in nearby buildings. Two firefighters were hospitalized for evaluation but were released later in the evening, NBC Chicago 5 reported.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to aid the affected couple and their roommate. The American Red Cross provided assistance to those displaced by the explosion. Due to the gas leak, St. Mary Catholic School canceled classes, as reported on their Facebook page.

Nicor Gas confirmed that the gas leak was contained, and gas service was shut off around 3:30 p.m. Residents were advised to verify safety with Woodstock Fire/Rescue before returning to their homes.

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