CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — A residential explosion in a neighborhood of West Virginia has resulted in the tragic death of one man, leading local officials to order the evacuation of nearby homes.

On Sunday, firefighters were dispatched following reports of an explosion in the Chestnut Hills area of Clarksburg. Upon arrival, they discovered individuals assisting a man who was critically injured. Clarksburg Fire Chief James Green confirmed that the man was the sole occupant of the house at the time of the explosion and succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a hospital.

The explosion was powerful enough to shatter windows and scatter debris over several blocks. Clarksburg Police Chief Mark Kiddy remarked on the scene’s devastation, noting, “I’ve never seen anything like it. It totally blew it apart. There was a recliner in a tree. It’s a miracle no one else was hurt.”

Following the incident, a gas leak was reported, prompting the evacuation of residents within a five-block radius. However, on Monday morning, the Harrison County Office of Emergency Management informed the public that some residents were permitted to return home.

The cause of the explosion has not yet been established, and the investigation has been handed over to the State Fire Marshal’s office. Kiddy indicated that they would conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter.

On Monday, crews from Hope Gas began work at the scene to restore gas service, with efforts expected to continue throughout the day. Hope Gas spokesperson Erin O’Donnell explained that the company was engaged in routine maintenance in the area as part of a long-term pipe replacement initiative, but emphasized that there were no prior leak concerns reported before the explosion occurred.