On Wednesday afternoon, 4 Jan 2012, at around 3:45 pm - 4:00 pm in the afternoon, a natural gas explosion that was powerful enough to level one home, and severely damaging three neighboring homes took place. The fire scene was located on Avenue B in the 2100 block neighborhood. Schenectady Fire Department firefighters responded after it was reported a contractor was working on a gas leak that resulted in a “Delta Response,” as well as “all available fire department apparatus” to respond to the fire ground scene.
Schenectady Fire Chief Michael Della Rocco said, “By the time our crews arrived, the gas had ignited and subsequently exploded.”
“There have been a number of these situation statewide where natural gas has been released by people working in buildings,”said Schenectady Fire Chief Michael Della Rocco, “This is one of those cases that’s a little beyond the normal circumstance.”
“Our investigation has already begun. We’re working with the Department of General Services, also with the police department and our own investigative crews to find out what happened,” said Schenectady Fire Chief Michael Della Rocco, “The results are typical of a gas explosion. The front, rear and both sides of the building being blown outward, and debris field associated with that.”
During this fire incident there were no reports of anyone being injured.
The Red Cross will be helping the 10 people affected following this gas explosion that damaged their homes.
As of today, 5 Jan 2012, Schenectady Fire Chief Michael Della Rocco is reported stating the fire incident is still being investigated.
(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)
