Car slams gas tank, causes explosion

WASHINGTON, Conn. (WTNH) -- A vehicle drove into a large propane tank Sunday morning, which caused an explosion at the Town Hall, officials said.

Propane spewing from the tank behind Washington Town Hall and all crews can do is wait.

"No way of knowing how long it will take for the propane to empty the tank," said Mark Lyon, First Selectman.

All of this resulted in a day-long emergency response with a taped off safety zone, but it's not enough to bring this small town to a standstill.

Folks are still able to get that morning cup of joe at the local market.

"I got a roasted chicken and I'm going to have that for dinner tonight," said Cynthia Quinn of Washington, "and my daily coffee, Times and Post.

It all began around 2 a.m. Sunday when a car hit the propane tank, sparking a leak.

The gas building up at the town hall caused the windows to blow out. It's unclear how long Town Hall, the State Police office and a nearby bank will be closed.

"It could be three, maybe four days," said Selectman Lyon, about how long it may take for the area to be cleared.

Just standing in the area, you can smell the propane. Firefighters went to nearby homes taking air quality levels and so far so good. There were no evacuations.

Since this happened on a Sunday, the impact is minimal, but if the venting process extends into the start of the work week, it could impact how the town is able to do business.  

Shortly after 6 p.m. Sunday, Selectman Lyon said they hope to have the Town Hall offices back open by Monday afternoon.