EUGENE, Ore. — Emergency services rushed to a local neighborhood in Eugene following a reported explosion and ensuing fire at a duplex on Hawthorne Avenue and Archie Street late Monday afternoon.
The explosion, which lead to a significant gas fire, was first reported to authorities who quickly secured the scene. Plumes of smoke were visible, filling the sky as firefighters battled the flames.
Residents of the area witnessed the explosion. “It was sudden and loud. Just a huge boom and then smoke everywhere. It’s the craziest thing I’ve seen,” said one of the neighbors who preferred not to be named.
Officials confirmed that the duplex was unoccupied at the time of the explosion, preventing what could have been a tragic outcome. Despite the intensity of the explosion, no injuries have been reported at this point.
Eugene Springfield Fire, along with the Eugene Police Department, were at the scene. The police employed a drone to assess the overhead situation and ensure all flames were thoroughly extinguished.
As per authorities, the initial investigation is focused on a possible gas leak, although the official cause of the explosion has yet to be determined. Community safety protocols have been revisited to ensure that all possible preventative measures are in place.
A witness account highlighted the rapid response of the emergency teams. “The response was fast and professional. They were here in no time and immediately took control of the situation,” stated another local resident.
The neighborhood around Hawthorne Avenue and Archie Street remains partially closed off as the investigation continues. Authorities are urging people to avoid the area to facilitate smooth operations and ensure public safety.
“This was an unfortunate event that could have had much worse outcomes,” said a spokesperson for Eugene Springfield Fire. “We’re thankful there were no injuries and that the structure was unoccupied.”
Further updates are expected as investigators work at the scene to determine the full extent and cause of the damage. Local community leaders commended the swift response of the emergency services and reminded residents about the importance reconstructing safety measures regarding gas and other flammable materials.
The incident has also sparked discussions about urban safety and infrastructure resilience, casting a spotlight on the need for stringent safety measures in residential areas especially concerning gas installations.