Natural gas leak blamed for Jeffersonville house explosion that injured 5

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A natural gas leak inside the home caused the explosion last week that rocked a Jeffersonville neighborhood and hospitalized five people with life-threatening injuries.

The Jeffersonville Police Department said Friday that the investigation into the July 30 explosion on Washington Way led to excess gas that originated from inside the home.

When police arrived in the neighborhood around 11:40 p.m. that night, they found five people in the front yard who were all injured from the blast. The house was engulfed in flames, when the Jeffersonville Fire Department arrived to put it out. EMS began treating the victims.

Two people were taken to a nearby hospital by helicopter, while the other three were taken in an ambulance. Alicia Denson, a friend of the family who lived in the home, said they were all inside at the time of the explosion.

As of Aug. 5, three of the survivors had been transferred to a recovery unit. But two others were in critical condition with severe burns, fighting for their lives.

"I think they're just trying to hold on to the faith and hoping for a miracle," Denson said.

If you'd like to donate to the families GoFundMe click here.

On Friday, the Jeffersonville Police Department stressed the importance of being mindful of the potential for gas leaks. They include two tips:

If you detect an odor consistent with natural gas, immediately exit the structure and contact emergency services via 911. Natural gas contains an additive specifically designed to make it easily identifiable by smell. Many describe it as a sulfur-like smell or a "rotten egg" smell.
Prior to beginning any project or construction involving gas lines or a gas appliance, contact a professional who is capable of safely completing the project. If you are unsure, err on the side of caution and contact a professional to ensure the safety of everyone.

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