Calnev Pipeline explodes, destroying San Bernardino

SAN BERNARDINO, Ca. Hundreds of residents are displaced following the

Calnev Pipelines explosion this morning.

The explosion occurred at 8:11 a.m. in the neighborhood bounded by Duffy

Street and Highland Avenue in Los Angeles. The pipeline was carrying
unleaded gasoline. Flames erupted 100 feet into the air.

Two people died in a home fire on Duffy Street. Firefighters are searching for
a third victim in the home.

A woman fled the house and watched it blow up behind her as she ran out.
The house is destroyed.

A ruptured gasoline pipeline caused the explosion. The cause of the rupture
is unknown. San Bernardino City Attorney Jim Penman inspected the area this
morning and determined no danger.

Insurance agent Bill Stewart was visiting a client at her home a block away
from the explosion. He saw everything go up in flames, including the
concrete.

We heard this loud noise, and it just started getting bigger. I ran to the
window and looked out and could see nothing but smoke; then we both hit
the floor, Stewart said.

I felt my whole house shake. I thought it was an earthquake. Then I looked

out and I saw the fire and I just started crying, explained another
neighborhood resident.

Seven burn victims have been admitted to the San Bernardino County
Medical Center. Their conditions have not been disclosed. More are being
treated for smoke inhalation.

Clouds of smoke are visible as far away as Riverside and Ontario

communities. Highland Avenue is closed to motorists.

The Calnev Pipeline is a 550-mile underground pipeline that transports

128,000 barrels a day of gasoline, jet fuel and diesel fuel from Los Angeles to
Las Vegas.

It last exploded in 1980, spilling 100,000 gallons of jet fuel into the Las Vegas
Valley.

The Red Cross Evacuation Center is located at 3753 Kerry St. at the Job Corps
Center.
###