Attorney: Homeowners reported problems with furnace before explosion

The attorney representing the residents whose southeast side home exploded late Saturday night said the homeowners reported problems with their furnace several weeks before the blast.

The owner of the home is listed as John Shirley.  However, Shirley’s ex-wife, Monserrate Shirley, her boyfriend and the Shirley’s daughter lived in the home.

The attorney told Fox59 News that the residents lived in the home for several weeks after problems with the furnace were reported.  The exact cause of the explosion continues to be investigated.


Monday, investigators found no evidence of a meth lab or bomb in the aftermath of the explosion that killed two people and injured several others.

Homeland Security Chief Gary Coons told Fox59 News that there was no evidence leading investigators to suspect methamphetamine production in the house. Additionally, bomb-sniffing dogs and federal agents found no traces of bomb residue in the wreckage.

Homeland Security confirmed Monday that the leading factor of the explosion at Stop 11 and Sherman Drive was likely a natural gas leak.

Indianapolis Battalion Chief Kenny Bacon said all investigations of this type begin as criminal probes.

Approximately 200 residents were evacuated from their houses. More than 80 homes were affected by the explosion, causing $3.6 million in damage.  Of those 80 homes 31 suffered major damage, five require demolition and 26 were deemed uninhabitable.