Elgin’s Fire Department continues to investigate the cause of a house explosion at 708 Elma.
A preliminary investigation revealed that one possible cause was a two-inch gas main leak in the street however fire officials have not officially confirmed that. Nicor representatives remain in the area replacing some service lines and pipes as the investigation continues.
Reports of a house explosion began to flood the emergency center around 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 12. Upon arrival, firefighters found the home collapsed and fully engulfed in flames. The explosion sent seven people to area hospitals on Tuesday, Jan. 12. Two people were listed in critical condition, one in serious condition and four were treated and released.
Nicor was on the scene just prior to the explosion investigating a report of a nearby gas leak. Neighboring homes were also evacuated at the time of the incident, but all area homeowners have since been allowed back home.
A full report will not be available for a few more weeks.