PUC Safety Division Continues Examination Of June Fatal Rowhouse Explosion In Philadelphia Focused On Natural Gas Utility Infrastructure

On July 23, the Safety Division of the Public Utility Commission’s independent Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement said the investigation continues into the June 29 explosion in the Nicetown section of Philadelphia that destroyed multiple homes, resulted in a tragic loss of life and serious injuries to other residents.

One woman died in the explosion, and two other women were injured.

The PUC expresses its deepest sympathy to the victims, their families, and the surrounding community, and extends appreciation to the many emergency responders who rushed to the scene as well as organizations and individuals who continue to assist in neighborhood recovery efforts.

Ongoing Safety Review

I&E Safety Division engineers responded to the scene on Sunday, June 29, and maintained a presence at the site throughout the following week, coordinating with the Philadelphia Fire Marshal’s Office, Philadelphia Gas Works, the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and other local, state, and federal partners.

The PUC’s jurisdiction focuses on natural gas utility infrastructure — including distribution mains, service lines, and meters — but does not extend to interior piping, gas appliances, or other customer-owned systems inside homes or businesses. 

I&E’s role is to evaluate whether any violations of state or federal pipeline safety regulations may be associated with utility infrastructure.

As part of the ongoing investigation, PUC engineers have been engaged in the following-- 

-- Reviewing PGW records and system data related to the affected location.

-- Conducting interviews with local residents, utility personnel, and emergency responders.

-- Observing leak surveys and gas detection testing — which, to date, show little to no indication of an underground natural gas leak in the area.

-- Coordinating site access as debris was removed, with additional testing to be conducted on items recovered from the scene.

-- Maintaining open communication with the Philadelphia Fire Marshal’s Office and other agencies involved in the broader investigation.

At this stage, preliminary information suggests the possibility of a failure inside one of the homes, on the customer-owned side of the meter, which is outside of the PUC’s jurisdiction.

However, I&E’s Safety Division will continue a fact-based and independent review of jurisdictional utility systems. 

Should additional information arise that alters the focus or scope of the investigation, I&E will follow all available data accordingly.

Commitment to Public Safety

While final determinations take time, if any immediate safety issues are identified during the course of the investigation, the PUC will work quickly and directly with the utility to address them.

The PUC remains committed to public safety and transparency and will provide further updates as appropriate. I&E continues to coordinate closely with PGW and other partners as evidence gathering and analysis proceed.

Background on the Incident

The explosion occurred around 5 a.m. on the 1900 block of West Bristol Street, destroying three rowhomes (1940, 1942, and 1944) and severely damaging several others. 

The response has included the Philadelphia Fire Department, Police Department, Department of Licenses and Inspections, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), PECO, and PGW.

Click Here for the PUC announcement.

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[Posted: July 23, 2025]  PA Environment Digest