Tank at Hastings-on-Hudson home was filled with gas when it exploded, investigators say

HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON, N.Y. (WABC) -- The tank that exploded at a house in Hastings-on-Hudson on Thursday, killing two, contained gasoline.

It is unclear why the oil tank was storing gas. Investigators are waiting to speak with the homeowner about why the tank was being dug up.

Two workers were removing the tank from the ground in the backyard when the blast sent it flying into the woods nearby. Both were killed. One of the workers was sitting on top of the tank and was cutting into it with a saw when it exploded. The explosion sent him flying about 25 yards. The other worker killed was standing nearby during the blast.

The victims, both of Ossining, have been identified as Mora Segundo, 50, and Luis Jacho, 52.

Police said the explosion occurred at 11:30 a.m. on Hillside Avenue.

The home is near Hastings High School, but no one was injured at the school. A message was sent to parents via phone and email from a school spokeswoman.

It said that the explosion was at the corner of Hillside and School streets, and that all students and staff are safe.

"We will be keeping everyone inside while the situation is handled by local responders," the note said.

Stay with 7online and Eyewitness News for more on this developing story.