News

3 MBTA manhole covers explode Sunday morning in Brighton

BOSTON — Police shut down part of Lake Street in Brighton for a few hours Sunday morning after three manhole covers exploded.

Neighbors told Boston 25 News the covers blew off the manholes around 5:30, making loud noises.

Hours later, smoke continued to pour out of the holes, which house electrical lines for the MBTA.

No one was injured - but one vehicle had its back window blown out when part of one manhole cover smashed into it.

Boston Fire Dept. District Chief Rodney Marshall said it's not surprising that it happened on more than one cover.

"It's common for a series to go because they're all in a line," District Chief Marshall said. "And usually they build up pressure and cause explosions."

Firefighters remained on scene for several hours Sunday morning, and went door-to-door checking carbon monoxide levels in the homes near the explosion - which were all normal.

The incident remains under investigation.