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Today it was reported that South Philadelphia row homes collapsed leaving several injured, not even two months after a deadly construction site collapse in the city left six people dead. At this point, officials have reported that at least four row homes were damaged and parts of three homes collapsed after an apparent explosion late this morning.
One of the homes appears to be completely demolished as a result of the incident on Daly Street’s 400 block. A total of eight people were taken to area hospitals with injuries, including one person whose injuries appeared critical. The other patients are said to be in stable condition. Two children are included among the injured.
The man who was critically injured reportedly told rescue workers that he is a contractor and was working on a hot water heater in a vacant house that was being renovated when the explosion occured. It is unknown if the water heater or the vacant home was the source of the explosion.
Apparently, there is a gas leak continuing at the site and safety crews are working to stop it. People are being asked to stay out of the area. Officials warned that a secondary collapse could occur. Officials also said it is amazing that three homes collapsed and no one was killed.
An investigation will undoubtedly take place to determine the cause of the explosion. The building owner or a construction company in charge of renovations could potentially face liability in a personal injury lawsuit if negligence was involved.
Oftentimes, when construction is performed in populated urban areas, buildings surrounding the construction site can also be put in danger if something goes wrong. This is exactly what happened in the June 5 building collapse and is likely what happened in this accident as well.
Source: My Fox Philly, “8 Hurt, 1 Critically, After South Philly Row Homes Collapse,” July 29, 2013