San Bruno Fire Leaves Many Critically Injured, Homes Destroyed

A Pacific Gas and Electric gas line explosion that occurred at about 6 p.m. on Sept. 9 in San Bruno, Calif., has killed six people, left at least nine people critically injured, and destroyed more than a dozen homes, according to reports from the field.

At press time, the blaze, fueled by high winds, had forced many residents to evacuate to local shelters and had affected more than 50 acres in the residential area. Meanwhile, local fire crews sought the help of 25 fire engines from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to assist in controlling the conflagration.

San Bruno is located close to the San Francisco International Airport south of San Francisco. Flames were said to be as high as 60 feet following the explosion.

Information from California’s State Fire Department, along with a media statement from the San Bruno Fire Chief, indicate that at least 53 homes have been severely damaged and up to 120 homes have sustained some damage. The American Red Cross are supporting an evacuation centre and two shelters in San Bruno. Local media reports indicate that the fire is currently around 50 percent under control.

Several insurance carriers report that their claims personnel are already in the vicinity to assist customers.