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Soda machine explosion in Mayfair sparks investigation

An exploding soda vending machine has sparked an investigation by Philadelphia police and federal authorities.

An exploding soda vending machine has sparked an investigation by Philadelphia police and federal authorities.

The blast was reported around 10:45 p.m. Thursday at 6600 Montague St. in Mayfair, police said. In surveillance video captured by a nearby plumbing and heating business, the vending machine appears to be consumed by a bright flame before it blows apart, spitting sparks and debris.

The force of the blast rocked the residential area, blowing out the windows of adjacent homes.

A man was reportedly caught on camera just before the explosion, driving up and placing an object in the vending machine's dispenser slot.

The Philadelphia police Bomb Disposal Unit was called to the scene, along with the fire marshal and the Arson and Explosives Task Force of the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Authorities returned Friday to continue their investigation.

There was not yet word on a suspect Friday night, and no arrests had yet been made in connection with the incident.