AURORA | A hit-and-run vehicle crash late Monday resulted in extensive damage to a northwest Aurora house, a ruptured gas line, and the evacuation of nearby residences, according to Aurora Fire and Rescue officials.
The crash happened at about 9:45 p.m. near the intersection of Vaughn and Uvalda streets in the Hoffman Heights neighborhood.
Fire officials said a sports utility vehicle veered off the road, slamming into a parked vehicle, which was then pushed through a wall and into the home.
The collision caused significant structural damage to the property and ruptured the home’s gas meter, leading to natural gas flowing uncontrolled into the house. The gas meter lacked a shutoff valve, increasing the risk of an explosion.
Residents inside the house were able to get out quickly, and there were no reported injuries.
“The driver of the SUV fled the scene before authorities arrived,” fire officials said in a social media post.”The Aurora Police Department is investigating the crash and seeking information about the driver.”
Because of the extensive gas leak into the home, nearby houses were also evacuated until the gas was turned off and the house determined to no longer be at risk of exploding.
A utility emergency response team worked to stop the gas leak. Fire crews assisted by cutting through concrete and digging near the curb to access the ruptured gas line.
The American Red Cross has offered support to the displaced family, who could not return home due to the severity of the damage.
Police are asking that anyone with information about the SUV driver is to contact the Aurora Police Department.
Was the vehicle that caused the crash stolen? If not, it seems like it will be slam dunk to find the idiot who caused this mess. I’m sorry for the family that owns the house, as they’ll likely have to have their insurance help pay for the damages. Hopefully they find the person who did this and hold them criminally and financially responsible for what they did.