Fire Caused By Apparent Gas Explosion Levels Building In NJ

PENNSVILLE, NJ (CBS) --  Officials are investigating a fire believed to have been caused by what appears to be a gas explosion in Salem County, New Jersey.

Police say there was a small explosion at a building near the intersection of Rt. 49 and Delaware Avenue in Pennsville that could be felt across the street at the police department.

Authorities say the building houses law offices on the first floor and an apartment on the second floor. The tenant was not home at the time of the explosion, but did arrive on the scene later, police say.

Police made Linwood Lake and several neighbors evacuate for fear that a gas leak had caused the explosion and might do more damage.

South Jersey Gas secured the gas lines as firefighters spent more than two hours trying to contain the fire.

No one was injured.

Carol Sparks, a neighbor, says, "There were flames out the front window and side of the house. First thought was 'I hope there is no one there,' which I'm glad there wasn't anybody."

Several residents tell CBS 3's Cleve Bryan that this is the second or third time that they've had to have evacuations or be on alert because of gas leaks.  The police chief also told Eyewitness News that gas lines are being replaced all throughout town.

The police chief, the mayor and a representative of South Jersey Gas planned a meeting to discuss what is safe when it comes to the construction.

South Jersey Gas released the following statement regarding the incident: 'At this time, South Jersey Gas crews are working with emergency personnel to conduct an investigation into the cause of today's incident. Kline Construction, an SJG contractor, was performing work in the area at the time, however, an investigation must be completed before a specific cause can be determined. Safety is our utmost concern and we are thankful that no one was injured today.'

Police say all major utility companies are on the scene investigating.