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National Grid has agreed to a $1 million settlement for its inadequate response to a gas leak in Oneida which led to a house explosion on September 9, 2023. The incident began when a 17-year-old crashed a stolen car into a home on West Elm Street, damaging the gas meter and causing a leak. Despite evacuations by emergency responders, National Grid failed to shut off the electricity, resulting in an explosion three hours later. Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported.
The New York State Public Service Commission's investigation found that National Grid's first responder did not take necessary actions to cut the power, nor did they call for additional help to do so. The investigation also revealed that National Grid lacked detailed protocols for disconnecting electricity during gas emergencies.
Under the settlement, National Grid's shareholders will fund enhanced safety measures and training to prevent similar incidents in the future. The settlement underscores the importance of holding utility companies accountable for public safety, according to CNYCentral. The teenager involved in the crash was arrested and charged with 30 criminal offenses.