Four Injured in Apartment Gas Explosion in Torrance, California

Four men were injured in a gas explosion at an apartment building located in Torrance, California. The building is on the 23500 block of Anza Avenue. The accident happened around 1:20 p.m. on Sunday, April 8, 2018.

The men were part of a work crew engaged in making renovations at the address. Two of the men had only minor injuries, but the other two were seriously injured. They were all transported to the hospital after treatment at the scene. One of the men has been placed in a medically induced coma because of the severity of his injuries.

A medically induced coma is used in serious emergency situations, such as traumatic brain injury or other critical injury. When a person is subjected to severe injuries, the brain reduces blood flow in the body. This decreased blood flow will further endanger the patient. The coma will ensure that an adequate blood flow is maintained, and will let the brain heal. This action will also reduce the energy that the brain needs, and reduces the risk of brain damage.

The men were working on renovations at the building, which included the installation of new appliances in the kitchen area. The blast was so severe that it shook two units in the building.

Anza Avenue was closed while a Hazmat team investigated the incident. Officials are speculating that the explosion may have been a natural gas explosion, but don’t know if there was a gas leak, or if an appliance was faulty or defective in some way. They plan to conduct a thorough investigation before making any official statements.

Witnesses at the scene told KTLA 5 that the explosion sounded like a sonic boom, followed by an earthquake.

Gas Explosions Cause Catastrophic Injuries

Gas explosions can inflict devastating, catastrophic injuries and can cause millions of dollars in damage to structures. The injuries inflicted can include brain injury, blunt force trauma, organ damage, crush injuries, lung damage, and burns. Patients face a long road to recovery, and will need help from their families and the community.

The Pritzker Hageman law firm has dealt with these kinds of injury cases for many years. They have witnessed the pain and suffering experienced by victims of explosions, as well as the shock and grief of their family members.  They treat their clients with compassion and care, as well as expertise. For a confidential, free consultation, call 1-888-377-8900. We do not get paid until we win compensation for you.