Major House Explosion Rocks North St. Louis County, Injures Several

Florissant, MO - August 25, 2025 - A powerful explosion tore through a residential neighborhood in unincorporated north St. Louis County early Monday, destroying multiple homes and injuring at least four people.

Emergency responders were dispatched shortly after 9:13 a.m. to the 13800 block of Evan Aire Drive in the Black Jack area following reports of a massive blast. Fire crews arriving on scene encountered “intense flames and significant structural damage,” according to the Florissant Valley Fire Protection District, which noted that three houses were completely obliterated and several others were ablaze or damaged.

At least one individual sustained critical injuries, while three others suffered minor wounds. All were transported to local hospitals, though their current conditions have not been publicly disclosed. No fatalities have been reported.

Authorities temporarily evacuated a nearby Wal-Mart and neighboring residences as shockwaves from the blast triggered multiple building alarms across the area. The Black Jack Fire Protection District remained on site throughout the day, conducting search and rescue operations and monitoring for secondary hazards, particularly gas leaks.

Local Councilwoman Shalonda Webb issued a statement urging residents to avoid the vicinity to allow emergency personnel unfettered access and to ensure public safety.

“It felt like an earthquake,” said one eyewitness, whose ceiling fan fell from its mount as the blast wave hit. “I rushed outside to see what happened and was met with smoke and debris everywhere. Our community is shaken”.

Investigators from the St. Louis County Police Department have taken over the scene to determine the cause of the explosion, which remains under review. Officials have not ruled out a natural gas leak but stress that all possibilities are being examined.

Natural gas-related incidents have been on the rise nationwide, with an average of 286 explosions reported annually in the United States. However, incidents of this magnitude remain unusual for St. Louis County.

Emergency crews are expected to continue containment and investigative work through the evening as they search for further evidence and ensure the surrounding area is secured.

• End -