A shocking incident unfolded in the western suburbs on Saturday morning when a truck carrying a leaking propane tank exploded, causing significant damage to nearby homes and vehicles.
The explosion took place at around 8:43 a.m. on Wood Dale Road in Addison. Emergency responders from the Addison Police Department quickly arrived on the scene, specifically in the 300 block of North Wood Dale Road. Following the incident, Wood Dale Road north of Lake Street was closed but is expected to reopen Sunday afternoon.
According to authorities, a Penske box truck was transporting a leaking propane tank, which ultimately led to the explosion. The blast created a debris field stretching from Oak Street to Overkamp Avenue, with reports of broken windows and shattered car windshields in the vicinity. Fortunately, no major fires erupted from the explosion, although one home was evacuated due to structural concerns.
In terms of injuries, the truck’s driver sustained minor injuries; fortunately, no other injuries were reported in connection with the explosion. Following an investigation in collaboration with the DuPage County Bomb Squad, police determined that there were no signs of foul play, classifying the explosion as an accident.
While incidents like these can instill fear in a community, it’s a relief that injuries were minimal and that local authorities responded promptly to manage the situation effectively. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols when transporting hazardous materials.