Explosion In Downtown Woodstock Destroys Home

WOODSTOCK, IL — At least one home was destroyed in an explosion near downtown Woodstock Monday afternoon.

Woodstock City Manager Roscoe Stelford told the Northwest Herald he hadn't heard yet of any reports injuries or casualties from the explosion. The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District alerted the public to a natural gas lead in a message posted on Facebook early Monday afternoon.

The natural gas leak was reported in the roadway and officials closed Tryon Street between Washington Street and West Judd Street, according to the Facebook post. At the time, St. Mary Catholic Church was evacuated and those living in homes in the area were advised to shelter in place until Nicor could handle the leak.

Just before 3 p.m., Stelford sent out an email reporting that a garage was on fire, and fire crews were working to get the blaze under control, according to the Northwest Herald.

Residents in Woodstock reported hearing the explosion, feeling buildings shake and seeing smoke fill the air in the downtown area.

This is a developing story. Check back for more information.