We have a brand new updated website! Click here to check it out!

Investigation underway into Old Market Explosion & Fire in Omaha

Omaha Fire Chief Bernie Kanger
Omaha Fire Chief Bernie Kanger

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Omaha officials say it’s miraculous that no one was killed in the explosion and fire in the Old Market area over the weekend.

Omaha Fire Chief Bernie Kanger says Monday it appears the fire was accidental, but it will take time to determine what caused the natural gas leak that fueled the fire.

City officials said it could take several weeks to determine whether the building that housed M’s Pub and several apartments on the upper floors can be salvaged.

The four-story brick building is currently encased in ice from the water firefighters sprayed on the structure after the explosion was reported Saturday.

Mayor Jean Stothert says the building’s owners want to rebuild, but structural engineers haven’t had a chance to evaluate it yet.

Copyright Eagle Radio | FCC Public Files | EEO Public File