Boston, Sept. 13, 2018, — Today is a day residents of Lawrence, Andover and North Andover will never forget. More than 70 fires, explosions or gas odor investigations were reported in the area with a few hours starting from around 4:00 PM.
Lawrence resident 18-year-old Leonel Robson was killed in Lawrence was in the car that was crushed by a fallen chimney after the gas explosion on Chickering Road. There were about 10 residents and firefighters were still being treated in area hospitals as of 11 PM.
Columbia Gas issued a statement around 9:30 PM, asking customers to refrain from turning off gas to their house or any appliances. The company also advised people not to light matches or candles, or use anything like cell phones, lights, appliances or power tools that could cause a spark.
Schools in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover will be closed on Friday, Sept. 14. The following are pictures people shared on social media during this tragic event.
