Cause of Detroit House Explosion Under Investigation
The Detroit News
(TNS)
DETROIT — A home on Detroit's west side exploded Thursday, obliterating the house, shaking nearby homes and leaving a pile of wreckage on the residential street.
DTE Energy confirmed an incident took place on the 91000 block of Forrer Street, where debris from the blast was strewn across the yard and across the street.
"Gas was on site at the home on Forrer Street in Detroit this morning to start natural gas service," said Chris Lamphear, a spokesperson. "An initial investigation at the scene has confirmed that all DTE equipment was in proper, safe working order. We’re continuing to work with local authorities to investigate the cause of the incident.
"At DTE Energy, safety is our top priority – for our customers, employees and communities. This afternoon, our team was called to an incident at a home in Detroit to help make the scene safe while local authorities investigate."
Representatives for the Detroit police and fire departments didn't immediately return messages seeking comment.
Stephanie O'Neal, who planned to move into the house, said she met a DTE employee at the home Thursday morning to have the utilities turned on. As the employee was working, O'Neal noticed a strong gas odor and became light-headed, she said. She turned on the furnace per the worker's request and left.
No one was in the house at the time of the explosion, O'Neal said.
Hours later, she said she received a call from the landlord about the explosion. She is without permanent housing and battling several illnesses, she said. She hoped to make a home where she could recover from an upcoming surgery in comfort.
A DTE team remained at the site late Thursday afternoon. A crew dug up the front yard and was looking at the excavated portion.
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