7 hurt after explosion levels Connecticut home



VERNON -- A house exploded in Vernon, Connecticut Thursday afternoon, injuring at least seven people, according to WTIC.

The explosion happened around 4:15 p.m. at 2 East Street. The force of the blast completely collapsed the structure. A search and recovery team responded to the scene and found four people in the debris. Three others managed to crawl out on their own.

All seven were taken to the hospital for treatment, according to officials, one of the victims is a young boy under the age of 10.

At 5:40 p.m., police said one person might still be trapped, but officials later said they are almost certain everyone is out. However, search and rescue teams and K9 units kept working to be certain.



Though the extent of injuries isn't yet known, Lt. William Meier said the victims he saw when he arrived were alert when they were taken to the hospital.

At least one other person who lives at the home was confirmed to be out when the explosion occurred. Police think it may be a multi-family home, but are still trying to track down all the residents.

Besides officers and fire officials from surrounding towns, as well as the Vernon fire marshal, State Police and the State Fire Marshal's Office responded, and so did the Tolland state's attorney.

Eversource, the New England energy company serving the area, also sent an emergency response team to evaluate the situation and turn off any gas or electricity to the home.

No word yet on what caused the explosion.

This is a developing story.