The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has approved a settlement with Peoples Natural Gas following a 2021 explosion that killed one resident and injured four others on Pennsylvania Avenue, in Tyrone. The incident occurred on July 26th, 2021, when a third-party contracting crew, working to repair outdated water lines, accidentally pierced a 6-inch natural gas main with a horizontal drill. The resulting gas leak led to a massive explosion that leveled the home of 83-year-old Anna Hunsicker, and severely damaged two neighboring residences. A multi-year investigation by the PUC’s Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement alleged that Peoples Natural Gas failed to properly react to the emergency. According to the 62-page complaint, a company serviceman arrived at the scene 40 minutes before the blast, but failed to shut off the gas supply, notify emergency services, or evacuate nearby homes. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission has approved a $325,000 settlement with Peoples Natural Gas regarding the fatal house explosion. PNG is also required to invest in community safety, implement operational overhauls, and is prohibited from raising rates to cover these costs.
Friday 27th March 2026
