Officials dig for answers in explosion

SOMERSET, Mass., (WPRI) - Authorities continue their investigation after a house has apparently exploded in Somerset, killing one person. The home located at 93 New York Avenue is now completely leveled and nothing more than a pile of debris.

The deceased has been identifed as 63 year-old Rose Marie Rebello. Rebello's dog was also killed in the blast. In a news conference on Friday authorities released the latest information on the investigation.

Right now, homes within a one block radius are still being evacuated for safety precautions. There are 5-7 homes in the area that have been deemed unlivable as of Friday evening. New York Avenue remains closed at this time as well.

Shortly after the blast on Thursday, several local fire departments responded to the scene. In a news conference on Thursday night the Somerset Fire Chief says,  "It was total devastation. I have never seen anything like it in my life. The level of damage was massive."

Fire officials say that at this time they are focusing on gas as being a possible cause, although they are not ruling anything out at this time.

The exact cause of the blast is still under investigation.

Any viewers with pictures or videos of the house explosion in Somerset please email them.