San Bruno fire update

A law enforcement official runs towards a massive fire in a residential neighborhood September 9, 2010 in San Bruno, California.

At least 4 people have died in a natural gas line explosion and fire which began last night in a residential neighborhood in San Bruno, outside of San Francisco. Firefighters are working to contain the fire which has so far destroyed 53 homes and damaged 120 others while Pacific Gas and Electric Company officials are trying to cut off the source of the gas line. Witnesses said that the initial fireball appeared to incinerate 8 houses before flames spread throughout the rest of the neighborhood. What responsibilities lie with PG&E in ensuring that the damage is taken care of? What caused the pipeline blast and could it have been prevented?

At least 4 people have died in a natural gas line explosion and fire which began last night in a residential neighborhood in San Bruno, outside of San Francisco. Firefighters are working to contain the fire which has so far destroyed 53 homes and damaged 120 others while Pacific Gas and Electric Company officials are trying to cut off the source of the gas line. Witnesses said that the initial fireball appeared to incinerate 8 houses before flames spread throughout the rest of the neighborhood. What responsibilities lie with PG&E in ensuring that the damage is taken care of? What caused the pipeline blast and could it have been prevented?

Guests:

Julie Small, KPCC's State Capital Reporter

Jeff Smith, spokesman, PG&E