Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service responded to reports of an explosion in the 1600 block of Selkirk Avenue near Keewatin Street at 10:33 pm on Friday, October 14, 2022.

As firefighters arrived on the scene they could smell a strong odour of gas coming from a heavily damaged bungalow. The front windows of the home were blown out and the front and side walls were significantly bowed out. Firefighters on the scene told News 4 that the explosion caused major structural damage inside the home as well.

A man who was inside the home at the time of the explosion suffered significant injuries and was taken to hospital in an unstable condition.

Debris from the explosion covered the front lawn of the structure and glass from the windows covered the street.

Five houses in the immediate area were evacuated as a precaution until Manitoba Hydro crews could shut off the gas supply. Residents were able to return to their homes after firefighters used testing equipment to ensure there was no gas buildup inside them.

The cause of the explosion is under investigation.

It is likely the home will have to be demolished due to the damage.