The Taunton Fire Department responded to a house explosion and fire on Plain Street in Taunton on Wednesday morning, Feb. 25. (Photo Courtesy Taunton Fire Department)
TAUNTON — Fire Chief Steven P. Lavigne provides the following update on the investigation into Wednesday’s house explosion and fire at 78 Plain St.
At this time, following the completion of the initial scene investigation by the Taunton Fire Department, State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s Office, Taunton Police Department, and other assisting agencies, investigators have made a preliminary determination that the explosion was the result of a natural gas leak.
No foul play is suspected.
Due to the catastrophic damage caused by the explosion and subsequent fire, the exact location of that leak and the cause of ignition remain under investigation at this time.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, supported by Eversource, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities and the Department of Fire Services Code Compliance & Enforcement Unit.
Wednesday’s explosion and fire left a 25-year-old woman and a 2-year-old girl seriously injured. The victims remain hospitalized on Thursday.
The Taunton Fire Department would like to remind residents that if you ever smell natural gas in your home or any building, it is imperative that you get everyone outside right away and call 911. In these circumstances, do not use any household appliances, electrical switches, electronic devices, or anything that could start a spark. Get everyone outside first, and then call 911.
If you are outside when you smell the gas, leave the area immediately. Find a phone away from the area and call 911. Always call to report the problem; do not assume someone else will do it.
“Our thoughts remain with the mother and daughter who were seriously injured, as well as everyone affected by this incident,” said Chief Lavigne. “One home was a total loss as a result of this explosion, and two others sustained significant fire damage. We also want to remind residents that if you ever smell gas, please leave the building and immediately call 911 from a safe location.”
The investigation will remain open and ongoing, with follow-up investigations and analysis to be conducted by several affiliated gas service provider agencies.
“Our hearts are with this young mother and her daughter as they fight to recover,” said Mayor Shaunna O’Connell. “This is a devastating event for their family and for the Plain Street neighborhood. The City of Taunton is grateful to our first responders and partner agencies for their coordinated response, and we stand ready to support the family and surrounding residents in any way we can in the days ahead.”
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