One Dead Following House Explosion in Clarksburg, West Virginia Neighbourhood

A house explosion in a West Virginia neighbourhood resulted in the death of one man and led to the evacuation of nearby homes, according to officials. Firefighters were called to the scene in Clarksburg's Chestnut Hills community on Sunday. Upon arrival, they found residents assisting a man, as reported by Clarksburg Fire Chief James Green to The Associated Press.

The explosion was so powerful that it shattered windows and scattered debris across several blocks, stated Clarksburg Police Chief Mark Kiddy to The Exponent Telegram. "I've never seen anything like it. It totally blew it apart. There was a recliner in a tree," he said. "It's a miracle no one else was hurt."

Gas Leak and Evacuations

Following the blast, a gas leak was detected, prompting the evacuation of residents within a five-block radius on Sunday. However, by Monday morning, the Harrison County Office of Emergency Management allowed some residents to return home.

The cause of the explosion has not yet been identified. The investigation will be conducted by the State Fire Marshal's office, as mentioned by Kiddy. Hope Gas crews were present on Monday to restore services, with activities expected to continue throughout the day.

Ongoing Maintenance Work

Erin O'Donnell, a spokesperson for Hope Gas, noted that the company is conducting ongoing maintenance work in the area as part of a long-term pipe replacement programme. However, she confirmed that there were no concerns about leaks in the area prior to the explosion.

The man found at the scene was taken to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries, according to Green. He was reportedly the only person inside the house at the time of the explosion.

The incident has left local authorities and residents shaken due to its severity and unexpected nature. The investigation aims to uncover what led to this tragic event.