ATLANTA — A late-night gas explosion at a downtown apartment building has left one person injured and prompted a frantic evacuation by a local mother and her five children.
Deandrea Moore had been detecting a strong scent of gas throughout the day and had contacted authorities earlier for help. Around 11:30 a.m., she reported the issue to both the Atlanta Police and Fire Departments, but was assured that her neighborhood was safe.
Later that evening, the situation took a dangerous turn when the explosion rocked a nearby structure that was undergoing renovations. Moore and her children were preparing for bed when her daughter alerted her to the loud noise and the shattered windows.
“My daughter woke me up, saying, ‘Mama, there was a boom and the windows burst,’” Moore recounted. The powerful blast sent her scrambling to evacuate her family.
Moore described the experience as overwhelming, noting the challenge of getting her five children to safety. “It was traumatic, having to evacuate each child one at a time,” she said. “You can only imagine how scary it is in those moments.”
In the aftermath of the explosion, one individual was reported to have sustained injuries, although fire officials confirmed that he did not reside in the damaged building. He was taken to Grady Hospital for medical treatment, and Moore expressed her concern for him, stating they knew each other and she is hopeful for his recovery.
Although her family was unable to return home that night, Moore mentioned that officials were working to provide assistance. “We’re just thankful that we are safe,” she said, expressing her relief as she reflected on the night’s frightening events.
With gratitude, she said, “By the grace of God, we are OK.”