Gas explosion ignites fire in Bay Area neighborhood; 6 hurt

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(The Center Square) - A large fire erupted Thursday morning in the San Francisco Bay Area following a gas explosion that blew out windows and shook homes in a residential and commercial neighborhood.

The explosion happened about two hours after an underground gas line was damaged by a construction crew.

Six people injured in the Alameda County city of Hayward were transported to the Eden Medical Center, according to media reports. Hospital officials said three were in serious condition.

The explosion occurred around 9:30 a.m. in the 800 block of East Lewelling Boulevard, just five minutes after workers stopped the flow of gas because of the damaged line.

The explosion and fire affected two homes and a workshop in back of one of the residences. At least 75 firefighters responded, according to the Alameda County Fire Department.

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. was told around 7:35 a.m. that a construction crew damaged an underground gas line. The crew did not work for PG&E, according to media reports.