Massive Explosion at Exxon Gas Station on New Britain Avenue, Plainville, CT

**Massive Explosion at Exxon Gas Station on New Britain Avenue, Plainville, CT**

*Plainville, CT* — A massive explosion rocked the Exxon gas station located at 149 New Britain Avenue in Plainville, Connecticut, late this morning, sending plumes of thick black smoke into the sky and causing widespread damage to the surrounding area. Emergency services are currently on-site, and the cause of the explosion is under investigation.

At approximately 10:30 AM, a loud blast was heard in the vicinity, followed by a fire that quickly spread through the gas station’s pumps and nearby structures. The explosion caused extensive damage to the gas station building, along with nearby vehicles and infrastructure. Residents within a half-mile radius reported feeling the shockwave, and some windows in surrounding businesses were shattered by the force of the blast.

Firefighters from Plainville and neighboring towns were swiftly deployed to the scene, battling intense flames and preventing the fire from spreading further. Multiple fire trucks, ambulances, and law enforcement officers are on the ground, with roads surrounding the gas station closed off for safety reasons.

Initial reports suggest that there were several people in the vicinity at the time of the explosion, including both employees and customers, but no fatalities have been confirmed at this stage. However, several injuries have been reported, and emergency medical teams are providing treatment to those affected. Authorities have urged residents to avoid the area as the situation remains volatile.

The local police department, along with the Connecticut State Police and fire investigators, are working to determine the cause of the explosion. Early speculations indicate that the blast may have been triggered by a mechanical failure, though this has yet to be confirmed. Hazmat teams are also on standby to assess the safety of the surrounding environment, given the potential for hazardous materials in the area.

“We are doing everything we can to control the situation and ensure the safety of the public,” said Plainville Fire Chief Linda Miller. “Our primary concern is to ensure that there are no additional risks to the community.”

The explosion has also caused significant disruptions to traffic, with New Britain Avenue closed in both directions. Local businesses have been impacted, with several temporarily shutting down due to the damage or evacuation orders.

This incident has drawn a large crowd of concerned residents and onlookers, and local authorities are asking the public to stay clear of the area to allow emergency responders to work without interference.

The situation is still developing, and authorities are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the community is being urged to remain cautious and await instructions from local officials.