An explosion and subsequent fire in a densely populated area near Hayward, California, led to the destruction of several homes, the shutdown of a major freeway, and left six individuals injured, according to local emergency responders, witnesses, and officials from Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E).
Around 7:35 a.m., a construction crew inadvertently struck an underground gas line while digging in the 800 block of Lewelling Boulevard. PG&E spokesman Jason King provided an update on the timeline of events, indicating that gas flow was halted by PG&E crews at 8:18 a.m. However, about an hour and a quarter later, at approximately 9:30 a.m., an explosion occurred, marking a chaotic start to the day for the surrounding community.
In light of the explosion, the California Highway Patrol swiftly took action, shutting down Interstate Highway 238 between E. 14th and Lewelling Boulevard, as well as from Mission to Paradise boulevards, to ensure public safety and facilitate emergency response efforts.
Fire officials reported that six individuals were transported to the hospital for treatment. Aerial footage from the scene captured at least two people being loaded onto stretchers, underscoring the event’s severity. Witnesses noted thick plumes of smoke rising from the area, prompting a significant response from emergency services. According to the Alameda County fire department, 75 firefighters were dispatched to tackle the blaze and manage the chaotic situation.
Neighbors recounted harrowing experiences during the explosion. Deborah, a resident of the area, described hearing and seeing the blast erupt from a home nearby, with all windows in her house being blown open. She expressed distress over the ongoing construction work that had been taking place for months, mentioning that crews had been intensely focused on roadwork in the days leading up to the incident. “They took part of our yard,” she lamented, emphasizing the fear and uncertainty that accompanied the construction activities.
Another resident, Christian Maldanado, shared a personal account along with video footage from his Nest camera, which captured the moment of the explosion. “I heard a loud bang, it shook the whole house,” he recalled, adding that it felt like a scene from a movie and was truly frightening. Shattered glass littered his yard, an indication of the blast’s raw power.
Steve, another witness who lives a mile away, felt the impact of the explosion shake his own home. Concerned for the safety of his aunt living nearby, he immediately jumped into his car to check on her. After reaching out, he was relieved to learn she was safe.
The explosion has brought heightened awareness to the importance of safety protocols during construction activities, especially in areas with underground gas lines. As investigations continue, the community remains on edge, reflecting on the destructive power of accidents like this and the urgent need for vigilant safety measures in construction zones.
