Downed power lines, house explosion prompts evacuation of Yeadon neighborhood

YEADON, Pa. - A large tree fell around 9 a.m. Saturday, taking down power lines, causing six homes to be evacuated and creating a great deal of chaos throughout the day in Yeadon.

"The gas line was ruptured and leaked gas into the community," Boyce said. "A number of evacuations took place of residences and an assisted care facility with 50 residents."

Officials say about four hours later, the gas reached an ignition source and caused a duplex to explode.

"The gas blew the front of the house off. The side is missing. It did cause a fire," Boyce continued.

Around the corner, residents at Grace Court, a senior living and assisted care facility were evacuated. Delaware County provided shelter down the road at the elementary school while crews worked to restore power.

Thankfully, no one was hurt, as the explosion happened after the homes were evacuated.

"A lot of us were on alert for this storm," Boyce explained. "A big tree fell and it hit the one pole that feeds the facility. It’s an unusual event, to say the least, but I credit the local fire department and police for evacuating the people."

The Red Cross was on scene throughout the day as well. Most residents were being allowed to return home late Saturday.