ORION TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Officials in Oakland County are lauding the community for their heroic acts following a massive explosion that destroyed a condo building in Orion Township.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the explosion. While first responders said they smelled gas at the scene, an official with Consumers Energy said their investigation found no abnormalities in their system leading up to the gas meter.
It happened at the Keatington New Town Condominiums at about 6 p.m. on Nov. 19, 2024. The explosion destroyed multiple units, caused severe structural damage to the building around it and critically injured two people.
“It was scary and sad and devastating,” said Heidi Anderson.
She was one of many people who ran toward the fireball to help. An Amazon driver who was in the area has been called a hero for his efforts.
“He helped pull one of the victims from the building,” Anderson said.
The Amazon driver is asking to remain nameless for the time being.
A 75-year-old woman and a 72-year-old man were badly burned. Fire chief Ryan Allen said the two remain hospitalized, but they are recovering.
Paul Kastran, a retired military medic, was able to get the man to safety and medical crews arrived shortly after.
Town Supervisor Chris Barnett commended the community for those who lept into action to help.
“First and foremost, I just want to thank the community and thank our residents for the incredible show of support in response to this horrific incident,” Barnett said. “It is an absolute miracle, an absolute miracle that there are no fatalities.”
Township officials are digging through the wreckage to discover the cause of the massive explosion. The investigation is expected to take about a week.
Multiple units in nearby condos have been deemed unsafe to live in and many people have been displaced. 18 units have been completely destroyed and 12 are being investigated to see if they are safe.
Orion Township has provided resources to residents in need of aid and to those interested in helping those impacted. You can learn more here.
