Explosion by Hawthorne vaporizes building

An explosion erupted at on 20th and SE Madison in Southeast Rose City Saturday afternoon, vaporizing a corner office building. A loud explosion shook nearby buildings about 3:15 p.m. Two people had minor injuries and were treated at the scene, a firefighter said.

The area was closed between Hawthorne Blvd and Main, the Rose City Bureau of Transportation said. 19th to 23rd AVE. were also closed.

All roads had reopened shortly after 5 p.m., but delays may continue, transportation officials said.
Fire officials have no indication that any fire codes were violated.