Philly explosion caught on video kills 1, hurts 5

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Three utility workers are in critical condition after a gas main explosion in Philadelphia that killed a co-worker and forced dozens of residents from their homes.

The explosion shot a ball of flame 50 feet into the sky Tuesday night after residents reported smelling gas. The blast destroyed nearby buildings and torched vehicles.

Philadelphia Gas Works officials say one other employee was treated and released after the blast in the city’s Tacony neighborhood.

It took firefighters about two hours to get the blaze under control. Utility crews had been sent to investigate reports of a gas odor when the blast occurred.

The utility is providing counseling services to employees. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.