RICHMOND, Ind. - On April 6, 1968, Richmond faced tragedy when a massive gas explosion downtown claimed 41 lives, injured more than 150, and destroyed much of the business district.

The disaster struck on a Saturday afternoon at 1:47 p.m. The initial explosion occurred at the southeast corner of 6th and Main Street, triggered by a natural gas leak from faulty underground transmission lines beneath the Marting Arms sporting goods store.

A second, more powerful blast followed, fueled by gunpowder stored inside the store. The dual explosions devastated the heart of the business district, leveling buildings and shattering windows. The explosions destroyed 15 buildings and heavily damaged many more in the downtown core.

In the days leading to the explosion, residents and business owners reported the smell of gas, but the source of the leak was never located in time. An extensive investigation followed, but no criminal charges were filed. 

A memorial now stands near the blast site to honor the lives lost from the incident.