Los Angeles, California – Authorities in Van Nuys are currently investigating the cause of an explosion that caused significant damage to an apartment building on Woodman Avenue Saturday night.
The Los Angeles Fire Department received reports of the explosion around 5:38 p.m. in the 7300 block of Woodman Avenue. According to Connor Thompson, an LAFD spokesperson, the blast was contained to a single apartment unit. Fortunately, the occupants, two adults and a child, were not at home during the incident and no injuries were reported.
Witnesses in the area, like resident Maronzio Vance, described the explosion as massive and likened the aftermath to scenes from a Marvel movie. Vance recounted how the force of the blast blew out the apartment’s windows and left the wall of the unit completely destroyed.
Vance, who captured footage of the aftermath showing shattered glass and debris scattered on the sidewalk, speculated that the explosion may have been caused by a gas leak. He mentioned previous warnings from city officials about possible gas shut-offs due to payment issues by the property owner or manager.
In response to the incident, the Red Cross stepped in to assist the displaced occupants in finding temporary housing. While no injuries were reported, the explosion prompted a swift response from forty-six firefighters who worked to secure the area and determine the cause of the blast.
City officials have indicated that investigations are ongoing, with inspectors from the Department of Building and Safety planning to conduct a detailed damage assessment. The community is awaiting further updates as authorities work to determine the root cause of the explosion and ensure the safety of residents in the area.