(CBS DETROIT) — Oakland County officials say 18 apartments have been destroyed in one year explosion in Orion Township Tuesday evening.
Officials provided an update Wednesday, adding that no fatalities have been reported.
“It’s an absolute miracle if you saw that scene that we’re talking about no fatalities right now,” said Township Supervisor Chris Barnett.
Township Fire Chief Ryan Allen says two people, a 72-year-old man and a 75-year-old woman, remain hospitalized. One resident is in non-critical condition, while the other is in serious and stable condition.
Several others were also slightly injured.
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office says the explosion was reported Tuesday around 6:30 p.m. at the Keatington New Town Association condominium complex on Waldon Road, between Joslyn and Baldwin Road.
Allen says 18 units have been completely destroyed or require extensive investigation to ensure the safety of the occupants. Researchers doubt the stability of twelve additional units.
Allen said investigators are working to determine the official cause of the explosion, but believe it could be gas-related. A full investigation can take a week.
Consumers Energy sent a team to the scene on Wednesday to investigate the cause of the explosion.
Authorities are urging anyone displaced by the explosion and in need of support to call the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767 or Orion Township at 248-391-0304, ext. 2009.
