NorwalkFire Department

Press Release

June 11, 2013

Norwalk Fire Department responded to a reported gas explosion at the site of an old tie factory located on Chestnut St. The call came in at 8:04AM.  Neighbors reported they heard an explosion followed by a strong odor of gas. Holes in the roof had allowed the accumulation of weight from rain and debris to enter the second floor and weaken the structure. The gas meter was struck, and began to leak heavily after the collapse of the second floor onto the meter below. It was the collapse of the second floor which caused the gas leak. The already weak structure was further compromised by the recent heavy rain and winds. In addition, this building is schedule for demolition in the near future according to Fire Investigators Luca Feola and Thomas Raila. The Fire Department shut off the gas meter at the building.  Yankee gas shut off all gas at the street and checked other buildings in the area. The power company shut off all electrical power to the building. The Norwalk Building Department was also on the scene. There were no injuries reported at this time.

Christian H. Hansen

Deputy Fire Marshal

NorwalkFire Marshal Division

141 East Avenue

Norwalk, CT 06851

Please note that despite how this incident was reported to the city; investigations by the Norwalk Fire Marshal's Office and confirmed by independent examination by Yankee Gas has determined that no explosion occurred. There was no ignition of any type. Please be sure that all future reports clarify this point. The gas leak was caused by a partial roof collapse and that noise most likely was the sound heard by the original caller to 911.

Chief Denis McCarthy
Denis McCarthy

1(203)854-0249 – Direct

1(203)854-0250 – Fax