Neighbors of deadly blast demand action

SOMERSET, Mass. (WPRI) - Neighbors living near the scene a deadly house explosion in Somerset are demanding New England Gas do more to prevent a similar tragedy from happening in the future.

Rosemarie Rebello was killed Feb. 19 when a gas leak caused her New York Ave. home to explode.

Months later, Gas officials met with state and local lawmakers Wednesday at town hall. According to Selectmen Bill Meehan, New England Gas agreed to conduct tests on gas lines in a wider area; from Almy Rd. to Rt. 138 and from Chace St. to Whetstone Hill Rd.

"The tragedy of February 19th, has torn this tight knit community apart. Unfortunately, many of those families are still trying to regain a sense of normalcy, comfort, and security," says Senator Joan Menard.

The gas company has already conducted several tests on New York Ave. and has replaced some sections of piping. While happy about the decision to increase testing, some neighbors said they are not satisfied and still don't feel safe.

"We've been wanting the gas company to move our meters outside and replace all the pipes and the gas company just seems to be ignoring everyone," said New York Ave. resident Mary Medeiros.

" I have investigated what other communities have done in this situation and I have had a number of conversations with my colleagues and representatives from other utilities from around the state. That being said, I strongly feel that much more needs to be done," Rep. Patricia Haddad.

No word at this time on when the expanded testing will begin.