Hayward Gas Line Explosion Causes Roof Collapse, Excavator Hit; Operator Injured
HAYWARD, CALIFORNIA — A major explosion Thursday morning destroyed multiple homes, injured several people, and led to major road closures after a construction crew struck an underground gas line, according to fire officials, witnesses, and PG&E.
The incident happened in the 800 block of Lewelling Boulevard, where a third-party construction crew was working on a public improvement project. PG&E spokesperson Jason King said the crew accidentally damaged a buried gas line at about 7:35 a.m. while excavation was underway.
King said PG&E crews shut off the gas flow at approximately 9:35 a.m., but just minutes later—around 9:38 a.m.—an explosion ignited a rapidly spreading fire that tore through nearby structures. Video circulating online appears to show the blast violently shaking an excavator, with the operator reportedly struck by falling roof debris during the collapse.
Fire officials said at least two homes and a workshop or outbuilding were destroyed, with heavy smoke visible across the area. Alameda County Fire reported that six people were transported to nearby hospitals, while additional residents were checked at the scene.
As of 1:30 p.m., Fire Captain Ryan Nishimoto said two residents were still unaccounted for, though authorities noted their vehicles were not at home—raising hope they may have been away at work or school when the blast occurred.
During the response, firefighting crews reported feeling “electric shocks” near the burning buildings, prompting a temporary withdrawal until conditions were considered safer. In total, about 75 Alameda County firefighters responded to the third-alarm fire.
The explosion also prompted the California Highway Patrol to close portions of Interstate 238, including areas between East 14th Street and Lewelling Boulevard, as well as segments between Mission and Paradise boulevards, to protect the public and allow emergency responders to work.
Alameda County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Roberto Morales said deputies arrived within minutes of the first emergency call, quickly evacuating residents from danger zones and assisting fire crews.
The construction underway is part of the East Lewelling Boulevard improvement project, which includes sidewalk widening, new bike lanes, high-visibility crosswalks, and railroad crossing safety upgrades.
Investigators are now working to determine the full circumstances leading to the gas line strike and the explosion. Authorities have not yet released updated details about the conditions of the injured victims.
