Authorities hunt for cause of explosion - two hospitalized

Two people were transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries from an explosion in a home near 46th and Q Sunday evening. One victim was seriously hurt.

Authorities were called to a home near 46th and Q shortly before 5:30 p.m.

There were initial reports of some type of structural collapse with persons trapped.

The first responders initially gaining access to the home found the floor creaking under their weight and had to back out.

They were eventually able to rescue four people from the house.

At last two people were injured.

Omaha Battalion Chief Keith Main said, "The foundations were really bowed out. There was an explosion. We're not sure what caused the explosion. Crews had to work around a lot of debris. There's a lot of debris. A lot of damage on the back of the house as well as the basement."

The seriously injured party was located in the basement. Another person, located on the first floor, was transported for treatment of less serious injuries. A third person was treated on the scene but not taken to the hospital.

Several neighbors called 911 to report the explosion and at least one neighbor tried to help the victims.

A neighbor told 6 News she heard the explosion two blocks away. She was so scared she prepared to evacuate her family.

At least half a dozen Omaha fire engines and rescue vehicles were on-scene within minutes. The bitter, dangerous cold did not hamper the firefighters in their rescue efforts.

A firefighter told 6 News it is a “miracle” the victims survived based on the extent of the damage caused by the explosion.