Explosion Destroys Minnesota Veterinary Clinic, Kills Several Animals

ALEXANDRIA, Minn. (AP) -- Nearby residents were back in their homes Wednesday after an explosion and fire at a veterinary clinic here.

Authorities said they believe a gas leak may have caused the blast Tuesday evening at the Animal Doctor building on the north edge of town.

Fire Chief Shane Schmidt said the building was gutted, and all the animals - about 10 - died. No people were hurt.

The gas was shut off, and 10 to 12 homes evacuated because they had no heat. But by Wednesday afternoon the gas is back on, and the residents are back in their homes.

The same clinic had a small fire on Monday, but it's not known if that's connected to Tuesday's explosion.