In Orion Township, Michigan, an explosion believed to be linked to a natural gas leak shook a condominium complex, resulting in significant damage to several units and leaving two individuals with serious injuries, according to local authorities.
Fire Chief Ryan Allen reported that, following the explosion that took place around 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, two people were admitted to the hospital with critical injuries, while two others sustained minor injuries. Initial assessments suggest that a gas leak may have contributed to the explosion, but a thorough investigation is still ongoing to confirm the cause.
The blast primarily affected one building, which suffered extensive damage, while another nearby building also sustained serious harm. Additional units within the complex experienced minor damage, as noted by Fire Chief Allen.
The critically injured individuals were identified as a 72-year-old man and a 75-year-old woman, as reported by the local sheriff’s office. Orion Township Supervisor Chris Barnett indicated that officials evacuated at least 15 condominium units at the Keatington New Town Association following the unfortunate event. He described how the explosion blew out windows and shifted one building off its foundation, while part of the affected condo structure remained standing.
Barnett expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “It looks like something in a movie. We have lots of people homeless.” The incident prompted the response of firefighters from nine different departments in the surrounding areas to assist with the aftermath of the explosion.
Additionally, authorities confirmed that two individuals initially reported missing were later located and found to be away from the building at the time of the explosion, ensuring their safety.