Vehicle hit gas line approximately an hour before O'Neill explosion

An investigation into the cause of a Monday morning explosion at St. Patrick’s Parish Center in O’Neill is believed to be the result of a vehicle striking a gas line that fed into the building.

In a press release issued Tueday by Holt County Attorney Brent Kelly, first responders identified a vehicle they believe was associated with the incident. The vehicle was driven by a 58-year-old Guatemalan national.

“The O’Neill Police Department initiated an investigation into the cause of the incident and were assisted by the fire marshal, Nebraska State Patrol, ATF and county attorney’s office,” Kelly said.

The driver, with the aid of an interpreter, cooperated with investigators.

Initial findings indicate the driver’s vehicle had a low-speed collision with a gas line that fed into the Parish Center about 50 minutes before the explosion.

The man was transported to Nebraska Medicine in Omaha. Kelly said Tuesday the man's condition is unknown.

Based upon a review of witness interviews and medical records, there is no evidence that the driver was under the influence of any alcohol or intoxicating substances, the county attorney said.

“During that period of time, natural gas leaked into the building and eventually ignited, causing the explosion and fire,” Kelly said.