Explosion destroys new construction, injures 1

A neighborhood was rocked in Wasilla on Sunday afternoon when a new construction build exploded on Top of the World Circle, according to Alaska State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Alaska State Troopers, Mat-su Borough EMS, multiple fire departments, and law enforcement agencies responded to the scene to discover the building was demolished from the blast. The explosion also damaged another building on the property as well as some nearby structures.

“The building where the explosion originated was a total loss,” said Department of Public Safety Information Officer John Dougherty in a statement.

“One person was injured in the explosion and was taken to an area hospital where he remains in critical condition,” Dougherty said.

According to an online AST dispatch, initial investigation indicates there was a natural gas leak inside the building. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting Central Mat-Su Fire Department in the investigation. Officials did not say what may have sparked the explosion amid the gas leak.

Some commented on social media said they felt the blast as far as Palmer and others reported hearing a loud noise and feeling buildings and homes shake on Sunday.

Dougherty said that the incident is still under investigation and additional information will be released as it becomes available.