Massive explosion possibly caused by natural gas destroys Nanaimo home

A home near downtown Nanaimo was completely destroyed by a possible natural gas explosion Sunday night.

Shockwaves from the explosion, which occurred at around 8:20 p.m., at a home on Pine Street at Fitzwilliam Street in central Nanaimo could be felt throughout the entire city.

Emergency crews are on scene and the home was completely destroyed by the blast.

Constable Gary O’Brien of Nanaimo RCMP told Victoria Buzz that several pedestrians in the area at the time of the explosion suffered non-life threatening injuries after they were struck by flying debris.

The power of the explosion also knocked out power to the police detachment for about 20 minutes.

While the home was vacant,  neighbours said the property has often been used by squatters – police do not believe there was anybody in the home at the time of the explosion.

The immediate area has been closed closed to the public. First responders are asking motorists to avoid the area.

Fortis BC crews are on scene along with BC Hydro.

While the exact cause of the blast is still unconfirmed, a Fortis BC spokesperson told Victoria Buzz the explosion did result in damage to the natural gas meter and gas blowing from it.

“Our crews isolated the meter and brought gas under control safely and as quickly as possible. Our crews remain on site to assist emergency personnel as needed.”

The massive explosion was caught on many home surveillance cameras around the area.

More to come.