Washington Gas says it has found the source of a gas leak that caused a massive Centreville home explosion.
Two people received minor injuries as a result of the February 15 explosion and fire in the 14300 block of Quail Pond Court. Dozens of homes were evacuated as officials worked to identify the source of the leak.
The National Transportation Safety Board — which has jurisdiction over pipeline incidents — has been investigating the incident. “Investigators identified a section of polyethylene plastic pipe near the corner of Quail Pond Court and Belle Plains Drive that leaked air during pressure testing,” NTSB said in a statement. NTSB said the pipe was removed and sent to a lab to determine the cause of its failure.
Washington Gas told customers that it has restored gas service to the remaining 19 evacuated homes. Utility officials and the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department will continue to monitor air quality in the homes for the next 48 hours. They will then determine when the evacuation order can be lifted.
“Once you return to your home, our work is not done,” Washington Gas told homeowners. “In the coming days, we will provide you with information about continued system monitoring and enhanced safety protocols in your neighborhood.”
Fire Department officials will also host a virtual town hall on Thursday, February 26, to provide the community with updated information.
Feature image courtesy Fairfax County Fire & Rescue
