Two Killed After Cable Tech Hits Gas Line

Two people were killed in Huntingon, Ind., Monday after a Comcast cable technician reportedly hit a gas line.

Resident 75-year-old Emilie Wilson and R. Alan Dalrymple, 50, a 21-year veteran of local gas company Vectren, died in the explosion that engulfed Wilson’s home in flames, according to The Herald Press in Huntington. Wilson’s husband, Jack Wilson, was injured in the blast, suffering burns on 25%-27% of his body.

A Comcast employee called the gas company to report that he had hit a gas line, according to the newspaper. The employee, who was airlifted to St. Joseph Regional Burn Center in Fort Wayne, was not named. He was listed in critical condition on Tuesday, according to the Herald Press.

Comcast officials, who did not identify the employee, said they are investigating the incident.

“Our thoughts are with the individuals and their families. The safety of our customers and employees is our top priority, and our primary concern at this point is for the people affected by this event,” Comcast said in a prepared statement. “We are working with local authorities who are investigating the incident.”

The explosion occurred at about 5 p.m. Monday. A total of 40 firefighters fought the blaze, which also damaged surrounding homes, until about 2:30 a.m. Tuesday, according to the Herald Press.