These Families Need Help Rebuilding After Hayward Explosion

HAYWARD, CA — Jessica Fox's mother was in her living room Thursday night when her home exploded.

She managed to get out and rescue one of her dogs, Fox recalled. But her other dog and kitty did not survive the blast, Fox recalls.

"We are still in shock, but incredibly thankful that my mom escaped alive and unharmed," Fox said in a post on GoFundMe. "It’s truly a miracle she walked away from something like this."

Fox's parents were one of multiple families impacted when a damaged gasline exploded Thursday morning in the 800 block of East Lewelling Boulevard, sending several people to the hospital, at least three in serious condition.

Community members are rallying around the people whose homes were leveled in a destructive explosion, including Fox's and one other family.

"Unfortunately, my parents have lost everything," Fox said. "Their home and my father’s business were completely destroyed and burnt to the ground. They are left with each other, their surviving doggie, and only the clothes they were wearing at the time."

RELATED: Gas Main That Caused Hayward Explosion Dated To 1940s, NTSB Investigation Shows

Allie Fralick said in a separate GoFundMe that her longtime friends had their family home destroyed during the explosion. Two adults in the family and a child are currently hospitalized, according to Fralick's post.

"This family has been left with nothing," according to the fundraiser. "No clothing, no food, no cars—everything exploded or was burned by the ensuing fire."

The gas pipeline, which dates back to the 1940s, was damaged by a work crew. It appeared the crew had successfully turned off the gas when the explosion happened just minutes later, according to authorities.

Cherly Hurd, a public affairs manager with the Alameda County Fire Department, said three buildings were destroyed on two separate properties, and surrounding adjacent buildings were also damaged.

The Red Cross was called to the scene and is helping those displaced, authorities said Thursday.

Jessica Fox's GoFundMe can be found here. Allie Fralick's GoFundMe can be found here.