Greencastle, Indiana, residents were jolted by a loud explosion Wednesday afternoon, as a house on Woodhaven Drive caught fire following a reported gas leak. One individual sustained injuries in the incident, which also resulted in a Greencastle firefighter requiring medical attention.
Fire Chief Rob Frank of the Greencastle Fire Department reported that crews were dispatched around 3:30 p.m. after receiving calls about the gas leak. While investigating the issue inside the home, an explosion ignited, causing severe damage and engulfing the structure in flames.
“The damage was so extensive that we had to focus on controlling the fire from the outside,” Frank explained. He noted that strong winds on the day of the explosion exacerbated the situation, rapidly spreading the flames. “We deployed our Master Stream device from the truck to effectively combat the fire.”
In total, the Greencastle Fire Department responded with a significant team effort, bringing two fire engines, a rescue truck, a ladder truck, and two chief vehicles to the scene, supported by 16 firefighters. Additional assistance came from nearby volunteer departments, including Cloverdale, Fillmore, Reelsville, Madison, and Bainbridge, alongside Putnam County EMS and local police.
The injured firefighter has since been treated and released from the hospital, as confirmed by Chief Frank. Meanwhile, investigators are diligently working to determine the root cause of the gas leak and subsequent explosion, collaborating with the Indiana Fire Marshal’s Office as part of the ongoing investigation.
No further information has been provided about the injured individual or the extent of the damages. Community members remain on alert following the incident, eager for details concerning safety measures and prevention protocols in the wake of such a hazardous event.