WTFX
Reprinted with Permission

PHILADELPHIA - Fox 29 was on the scene when a gas main exploded in Philadelphia's Tacony section on Tuesday night, killing one utility worker and injuring five other people, including a firefighter.


One Philadelphia Gas Works employee was killed in the blast. Four other workers and a firefighter were hurt.

Three of the PGW workers were listed in critical condition Wednesday morning at Temple University Hospital's burn unit.

The injured Philadelphia firefighter was reported to be in guarded condition.

The fire burned for three hours after the blast.

The incident was first reported as a hazmat scene around 7:30 p.m., when a 12-inch high-pressure gas main ruptured.

Numerous repair workers responded to the call.

The explosion was reported about one hour later as crews were trying to repair the gas main break. There may have been a PGW truck near the explosion scene.

Fox 29 caught the explosion on tape, as debris flew after a gigantic flash and explosion.

A command center is now in place at Torresdale and Longshore Avenues. Dozens of people have been evacuated from the scene.

The Red Cross says 15 to 20 families are displaced.

"Right now, we're scooping up all of the family members that are on the streets. It's really cold tonight, and we have them here at this rec center, right in the neighborhood down from the scene. Red Cross volunteers are giving out blankets, we're giving them something to drink, some hot chocolate and caring for people of all different ages right now. W've got about 60 people in the shelter," said Donna Palmierim CEO of the local American Red Cross.

The Red Cross said all of their people have found temporary places to stay. The organization will be providing direct financial assistance to several families affected by the explosion.

A water main leak was also reported at the scene.

Torresdale Avenue remains closed Wednesday morning between Tyson and Longshore avenues while crews work to investigate and make repairs. Take Marsden or Vandike streets to get around the scene.