‘Widespread damage’ in St. Louis County explosion, three injured

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. (KTVI) – Officials are responding to an explosion in unincorporated north St. Louis County Monday.

According to Black Jack Fire Chief Paul Peebles, crews responded to reports of a home explosion in the area of 13800 block of Evan Aire Dr. around 9:15 a.m. When they arrived, they found five homes on fire with “not much left of them there.”

At least three people were rescued and transported to the hospital with other injuries reported. However, Peebles added that everyone is accounted for.

Crews from gas company Spire as well as the bomb and arson unit are on scene. A spokesperson from Spire said they have turned off all natural gas in the area and have not found any issues with their gas-related infrastructure.

The St. Louis County Police Department said there was “widespread damage to homes in the area” and asked anyone who does not live in the immediate area to avoid the scene.

The explosion forced U.S. 67 to close in both directions from New Halls Ferry Road to Mondoubleau Lane. Additionally, a Walmart store less than a mile away from the scene has closed.

It is currently unclear what led up to the incident.

This is a developing story. More will be posted as it comes into the FOX 2 newsroom.

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