Brighton community reflects on 70 years since deadly gas explosions

BRIGHTON, N.Y. (WHEC)— The Town of Brighton came together Tuesday morning to remember a tragedy that rocked that community, 70 years ago.

Tuesday marked seven decades since a series of gas explosions near the 12 Corners killed two people and injured 10 others. In the chaos, 19 homes were destroyed– and another 25 burned.

A remembrance ceremony took place at Firehouse #2 near the corners. Town Historian Mary Jo Lanphear said it’s important to still reflect on what happened.

"This event back in 1951 was just as awful to the people that lived in this town then, as 9/11 was to us when it happened 20 years ago," Lanphear said. "That destruction coming out from nowhere is just unthinkable.

Town officials said this event was a perfect example of the long history of the community and public safety working together.