Watch CBS News

Man Severely Injured After Barrel Explodes In Fawn Twp. Garage

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Emergency responders were called to a dangerous explosion in Fawn Township Tuesday evening.

It happened around 4:30 p.m. along State Route 908 in the back of Graff Trucking's garage, where a barrel exploded.

Emergency dispatchers report that one person has been injured. The victim reportedly has severe lacerations to his face -- and that part of his face is missing. He was flown to Allegheny General Hospital.

The victim has not been identified, but is said to be in his 50s and not an employee.

"He was outside the garage area doing some work," said Fawn Township Police Chief Timothy Mayberry. "An explosion happened, I believe it was a 55-gallon drum. We don't know what kind of fuel was in it, all we know was there was an explosion."

"We just heard a real loud explosion.  We knew something was bad. I come out to check, I didn't see anything I came out the house and waited until we saw life flight come down to his driveway," James Keys , a neighbor, said.

Police say he was just visiting the owner, who is a friend.

They also added they don't know if he'll be able to make it given the extent of his injuries.

The county fire marshal is trying to determine the cause of the explosion.

Graff Trucking's owner, Mike Graff, was not in the office Wednesday, according to office personnel.

Stay with KDKA for more information.

You May Also Be Interested In These Latest News Stories

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.