A garbage truck powered by compressed natural gas partially exploded on Friday afternoon in northwest suburban Arlington Heights, causing significant damage and injuring multiple first responders. The incident occurred around 4 p.m. near the intersection of Derbyshire and Euclid Avenues.
Authorities believe one of the compressed natural gas tanks on the truck exploded, creating what officials described as a “significant” blast. The explosion was so powerful that truck parts were scattered several blocks away, and a massive shockwave caused substantial property damage to nearby homes.
First Responder Injuries
Three first responders were injured during the incident:
- Two police officers
- One firefighter
All three sustained “post-blast concussions” from flying debris and were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Property Damage
The explosion’s impact was extensive, with multiple homes experiencing significant damage. Residents reported:
- Sections of roofing blown off
- Damaged siding
- Broken windows
Authorities advised residents whose homes sustained damage to call 911 to document the incident.
Groot Waste Management operated the garbage truck and subsequently assisted in removing the explosion debris. Nicor Gas confirmed that no natural gas service was interrupted by the incident.
Residents captured dramatic doorbell camera footage showing the moment of the explosion, revealing a cloud of flames and smoke accompanied by a loud boom.
Incident Date: Friday, Afternoon
Location: Arlington Heights, Near Derbyshire and Euclid Avenues
