First Responders Praised for Quick Work

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Portland officials say a natural gas explosion that injured eight people could have been disastrous without the speedy work of first responders.

Eight people were injured in the explosion Wednesday morning in a busy shopping district.

Before the blast, firefighters and police officers quickly went to the site and cleared the area of people after a construction crew hit a gas line.

Mayor Charlie Hales said at a news conference that their work averted a catastrophe. Hales said the "excellent work by our first responders" saved the lives of many people.