ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. - St. Louis County Police report an 18-year-old suffered life-threatening injuries from a devastating explosion in north St. Louis County. 

Black Jack firefighters responded to the call on Evan Aire Drive at approximately 9:15 a.m. on Monday.

When they arrived, five homes were burning. The fire chief said more than 20 homes were damaged, with 90% deemed unsafe for residents to enter. The force of the explosion could be felt for miles.

“There’s extensive damage in these homes; people will not be able to get back in there,” said Chief Paul Peebles, Black Jack Fire Department. “It’s just too dangerous at this time.”   

Denise Ware is one of those residents unable to enter the house where her family lives. Her granddaughter was home when the blast occurred and had a bandage wrapped around her head on Monday night.

“Glass came through the window and caught her head,” said Ware. “We don’t know what happened or what’s next.”

Ware’s mother was also home at the time of the blast.  Part of the ceiling in her room collapsed but thankfully she was not injured from the blast. She did require hospitalization due to a medical condition exacerbated by the explosion.

“She relies on oxygen,” said Ware.

The St. Louis County Police Department’s Bomb and Arson unit is investigating the blast.  Authorities have not determined the cause.

Spire officials said no one reported a smell of natural gas in the area before the blast. There were also no reports of anyone requesting information about digging in the area, according to Spire.

“Our folks did not find any issues with our natural gas infrastructure,” said Jason Merrill, company spokesman.

The American Red Cross established a shelter at Saint Angela Merici located at 3860 N. Highway 67.

Anyone who wishes to drop off donations for displaced residents can do so at Black Jack Fire Station #3, located at 5675 N. Highway 67. 

Elected officials encouraged residents in need of assistance to contact the offices of their local representatives.