Man hurt in N. Philly rowhouse explosion, collapse

A man was seriously injured today when an explosion ripped through a rowhouse in North Philadelphia, officials said.

The victim, whose name was not released but who was said to be about 40 years old, was taken to Temple University Hospital suffering facial burns and a possibly fractured femur.

Firefighters responded to the 1100 block of West Ontario Street in the Franklinville section about 10:32 a.m. to a report of dwelling collapse, said Capt. Jeffrey Thompson, a Fire Department spokesman.

On arrival, they found the wall of a middle of the rowhouse had collapsed and a small fire. The incident was declared under control at 10:47 a.m.

Thompson said the damage was caused by an explosion, the cause of which was under investigation by fire marshals and Philadelphia Gas Work officials.