Source of Oct. 15 home explosion in Haymarket not yet identified

Here is a summary of the information provided by Prince William County Fire MArshal’s Office on Oct. 16:

Units were dispatched to the 5900 blk of Coby Hunt Ct. (Haymarket) at 4:17 pm for a reported outside gas leak. The dispatched unit arrived at 4:25 pm finding a 2” gas line damaged and leaking. At 4:26 pm, Washington Gas was requested for assistance. Shortly thereafter, the destroyed home and the homes in the immediate area were evacuated. The gas company arrived on the scene at 5:13 pm. The explosion occurred at approximately 5:36 pm. The leak was still active at the time of the explosion. When the home exploded, the on-scene fire unit officer immediately requested additional units and a second alarm to assist within minutes.

A private contractor was in the process of replacing the water line to the home when the gas line was struck and ruptured. Natural gas is lighter than air and will travel through any possible avenue. At some point the gas reached an ignition source and the explosion occurred. There are multiple possible ignition sources that could have contributed to the event. Miss Utility had been contacted prior to the construction.  The scene is still being studied to possibly identify the ignition source. A representative of the State Division of Utility and Railroad Safety is also on the scene to investigate the incident.

No injuries were reported. Except for the destroyed home all occupants were allowed to return to their homes last night. Hopefully, gas service maybe restored to the impacted homes later tonight.

Additional information will be provided as warranted.