Wappingers Falls house explosion causes building collapse
An explosion on Brick Row in Wappingers Falls caused a building collapse and vast rescue effort Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023.
WAPPINGERS FALLS – Authorities have reported no fatalities after a devastating explosion damaged a house on Brick Row in the village.
Multiple people were hurt and half the building collapsed as a result of the explosion and the fire it sparked.
At least two victims were located in the rubble early Thursday afternoon, and firefighters on the scene requested multiple helicopters to fly the injured to hospitals.
Teams of first responders trained to rescue people from collapses were also deployed.
Dutchess County Emergency Management is asking people to avoid the area of Main Street, Mesier Park, Mill Street and High Street while firefighters and other emergency responders are working there. East and West Main streets are currently closed between South and Delavergne avenues.
People who live nearby felt their homes shake when the explosion happened.
In a statement posted on social media, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she would be sending state resources to assist at the scene.
What caused Wappingers explosion
Central Hudson spokesman Joseph Jenkins said while an investigation is continuing, a preliminary reports indicate a contractor for Cental Hudson struck a 3/4-inch gas line, causing the explosion and fire.
Central Hudson temporarily cut all electric and gas service in that area. Most of those customers should have service restored by sometime Thursday night.
For those who do not, Central Hudson will provide hotel rooms, Jenkins said.
Central Hudson also has representatives on site, gathering more information, he said.
This report will be updated as more information becomes available.
Mike Randall covers breaking news for the Times Herald-Recor and the, Poughkeepsie Journal. Reach him at mrandall@th-record.com or on Twitter @mikerandall845.