Addison, Illinois — An explosion involving a truck carrying a leaking propane tank rocked a residential area on Saturday morning, leaving behind a trail of damage and prompting an emergency response from local authorities.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:43 a.m. as the truck traveled along Wood Dale Road. The Addison Police Department quickly arrived at the scene, where they found extensive debris scattered across the roadway and surrounding properties. At least one house was deemed structurally unsafe and required evacuation, according to police reports.
Authorities confirmed that the vehicle involved was a Penske box truck. Officers discovered that a propane tank in the truck was leaking, which led to the blast. “The situation could have been much worse, but thankfully we did not see any major fires,” an officer noted.
Witnesses described the chaos that ensued following the explosion. Debris was found reaching from Oak Street to Overkamp Avenue, with windows in nearby homes shattered and car windshields broken. The shockwave reportedly rattled the neighborhood, leaving residents startled and concerned about their safety.
In the aftermath, Wood Dale Road was blocked off to facilitate investigations and cleanup. Police indicated that they expect the road to reopen Sunday afternoon, allowing traffic to resume in the area.
Fortunately, the driver of the truck survived with only minor injuries, and there were no reports of injuries to local residents. The incident was investigated in collaboration with the DuPage County Bomb Squad, who found no evidence of foul play. Authorities have since classified the explosion as an unfortunate accident.
First responders emphasized the importance of safety protocols concerning hazardous materials, especially in residential areas. They urged the community to be vigilant regarding any signs of leaks or unusual odors, which can pose serious risks.
As investigations continue, local officials stress the need for ongoing assessments of emergency response strategies to address potential hazards effectively. The community remains on edge but is relieved that the situation did not escalate further.