Newark, NJ (March 14, 2026) – Three people were injured, and several homes were temporarily evacuated following a gas line explosion in Newark on Friday afternoon, according to authorities.
Emergency crews were dispatched at approximately 12:20 p.m. to a residence in the 80 block of Magazine Street in Newark, New Jersey. Officials with the city’s public safety department responded after reports of an explosion at a home.
According to Emanuel Miranda, construction workers were performing work on a water line when the crew accidentally struck a natural gas line. The damage triggered an explosion that severely damaged the home’s structure.
Authorities said the blast’s force blew the front of the house outward, sending siding and debris into the street and shattering nearby windows.
Emergency responders transported three individuals to University Hospital for treatment. The injured included two teenagers, ages 15 and 16, and one construction worker. Officials reported that their injuries were not considered life-threatening.
As a precaution, residents in nearby homes were temporarily evacuated while crews worked to secure the area. Officials also confirmed that approximately 15 dogs were removed from the backyard of a neighboring property during the response.
Utility crews from Public Service Enterprise Group were called to the scene to repair the damaged gas line and ensure the area was safe.
The incident remains under investigation as crews continue assessing the damage.
We hope for a full recovery for those injured in this explosion.
Gas Line Damage During Construction Can Lead to Dangerous Explosions
Utility line strikes during excavation or construction work can pose serious risks to nearby homes and residents.
Natural gas lines run beneath many urban neighborhoods in cities such as Newark, New Jersey, and accidental damage during construction projects can release gas that may ignite if exposed to a spark or open flame.
When incidents occur on residential streets like Magazine Street, emergency responders typically secure the area, evacuate nearby residents, and coordinate with utility companies to shut off the gas supply and repair damaged infrastructure.
