Aerial Video Shows Devastation in Ontario After Vehicle Hits House, Sparks Explosion

Police in London, Ontario, shared aerial footage on August 15 showing devastation in the Old East Village neighborhood after a vehicle struck a house, hit a gas line, and sparked an explosion the night before.

One member of the public and several first responders were injured, police said. City officials said one home was destroyed and several others were damaged. Around 100 homes were evacuated and the area was cordoned off for an investigation.

A reception center for displaced residents was set up overnight at Carling Heights Optimist Community Centre, and around 30 people who went there were provided accommodations, officials said.

Police said a 23-year-old Kitchener woman, Daniella Alexandra Leis, was facing a number of charges in relation to the collision, including “impaired operation causing bodily harm” and DUI. She was due in court on September 4.

Enbridge Gas, which says it provides gas to 3.7 million customers across Ontario, lauded first responders and said the gas supply to East London had been turned off until authorities deemed it safe to turn back on. Credit: London Police ON via Storyful