ELLWOOD CITY, Pa. — An early morning explosion on Tuesday caused significant damage to a building on the 600 block of Mount Vernon Drive, home to The Time Brewpub and several other businesses, including a gym and a tanning salon. The establishment, which was formerly an elementary school, has been a labor of love for the owner, who had recently revitalized the space for community use.
Rich Myers, chief of the Ellwood City Fire Department, expressed his sorrow for the owner, stating, “He put his heart and soul into it. To see something like this happen, especially when he was just getting back on his feet, is tragic.” Myers, who lives nearby, described the blast as a powerful bang that shook his home.
Neighbor Evan Westlund recounted his experience, saying he was abruptly awakened by the explosion. “It scared me quite a bit. I ran to the window and saw debris flying up Massachusetts Drive,” he said, emphasizing the startling nature of the incident.
Authorities reported that there were no immediate injuries following the explosion. However, Myers indicated that the building’s structure has been deemed unsafe, while the contents of other businesses within remain largely intact. “There’s a lot of creativity in how the owner transformed the school’s classrooms into different areas. We’re all hoping for a chance to rebuild,” Westlund added.
Columbia Gas technicians, local police, and the Pennsylvania State Police fire marshal were quickly dispatched to assess the situation. Ellwood City Mayor Anthony Court noted that while the cause of the explosion has not yet been determined, investigators are exploring various possibilities. “Natural gas is one option, but we’re also considering the likelihood of an internal malfunction, such as with a boiler,” he said.
The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has been notified and will assist with the investigation. As the community grapples with the aftermath of the explosion, local residents are rallying to support the businesses affected. Many express hope for a swift recovery, eager to see the establishment bounce back.