Hayward, CA - A devastating explosion ripped through a Hayward neighborhood Thursday morning, destroying at least one home, injuring six people, and igniting a large fire that shook surrounding houses and shattered windows.
Early Morning Gas Leak Reported
According to the Alameda County Fire Department, crews were initially dispatched at 7:50 a.m. to the 800 block of East Lewelling Boulevard after reports of a natural gas leak. Firefighters were cleared by PG&E crews just minutes later, around 7:55 a.m.
Two hours later, at 9:38 a.m., dispatchers received new calls reporting a massive explosion at the same address. Flames engulfed multiple structures as smoke poured into the air, visible for blocks.
Doorbell Camera Captures the Moment
A home security video provided by resident Brittany Maldonado showed an excavator digging near the property moments before a tremendous blast tore through the house. The roof and walls blew apart as workers and neighbors were knocked back by the force.
"We were sitting in the house and it just... everything shook," Maldonado said. "Stuff fell off the walls and when we looked at the camera, it was like you were watching a war video."
Injuries and Property Damage
Two of the six injured people are believed to be workers on-site at the time of the explosion, officials said. All victims were transported to Eden Medical Center, where three remain in serious condition. In addition to the destroyed home, two others sustained major fire and structural damage, while a nearby workshop was also affected.
The neighborhood contains both homes and small businesses just off Highway 238.
Questions Over Response and Timing
PG&E reported that at 7:35 a.m., a third party had struck an underground gas line. The utility said its crews were dispatched immediately, but the flow of gas was not fully stopped until 9:25 a.m.—just ten minutes before the explosion occurred.
"We did have to isolate the lines and the damaged lines," said PG&E spokesperson Tamar Sarkissian. "It's a process."
Fire and explosion investigator Richard Meier challenged that explanation: "It's understandable why it takes time, but not reasonable. They could identify valve locations better and make them more accessible."
Dispute Over Evacuation Responsibility
A central question now under investigation is why nearby residents were not evacuated after the initial report of a leak.
Sarkissian said PG&E does not typically carry out evacuations, adding, "It is something that first responders usually do."
However, Alameda County Fire Deputy Chief Ryan Nishimoto offered a different account: "When our crews showed up two hours prior, we did not smell gas, detect gas, or see any reason for an emergency. PG&E said they could handle the situation, so our crews released at that point."
Meier countered that gas companies bear responsibility when a leak is confirmed. "They can’t just push that off onto the fire department," he said. "What if no one had called the fire department and they're the only ones there?"
Multi-Agency Investigation Underway
PG&E, Cal/OSHA, the NTSB, and other agencies have opened investigations into the explosion. ABC7 News reporter Melanie Woodrow is examining the timeline and decisions made in the hours leading up to the blast, including the clearance and communication between PG&E and local fire officials.
Legal Fallout After Gas Explosions: Attorney Breaks Down Victims’ Rights and Options
When a gas leak leads to an explosion, victims and their families often face devastating injuries, property loss, and mounting financial strain. To better understand what legal actions are available after such incidents, we sat down with California personal injury lawyer Jason Amala. Their discussion explores how victims can hold responsible parties accountable, recover compensation, and protect their rights during ongoing investigations.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: After an event like this, families are left with serious injuries, property damage, and a lot of unanswered questions. What legal steps can victims take right now?
Jason Amala, Esq.: The first step is preserving evidence—photos, debris, communication with utility companies, and any inspection reports. Victims can file claims against parties potentially responsible, including contractors, gas companies, or equipment operators if their actions contributed to the explosion. These cases often fall under negligence or wrongful death law.
Banville: Many are wondering who bears responsibility when a gas line is damaged by a third party. How does that typically work?
Amala: Responsibility can be shared. If a contractor struck the line, they may be liable, but the utility company can also face claims if its response time or safety procedures fell short. That’s why investigations from agencies like the NTSB and Cal/OSHA are so important—they determine where the safety breakdown occurred.
Banville: And for families dealing with medical bills and rebuilding their homes, what kind of compensation is possible?
Amala: Victims can pursue recovery for medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation costs, and property loss. In fatal cases, families may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit to recover funeral costs and other damages. The key is to consult with a lawyer experienced in gas explosion cases as soon as possible.”
Protect Your Rights After a Gas Explosion
Victims of gas explosions and their families don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Legal guidance can make a major difference in holding negligent parties accountable and securing the compensation needed for recovery. Our experienced attorneys are ready to review your case, explain your rights, and help you take the next step. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you rebuild after tragedy.
