Still homeless: Mississauga explosion could displace residents for months

A massive explosion that rocked a Mississauga community has left many residents displaced and facing an uncertain future.

The blast completely destroyed a house near Dixie and Burnhamthorpe roads and sent wood and debris flying throughout the neighbourhood.

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The explosion was so powerful that dozens of homes had to be evacuated and some will have to be torn down because they may no longer be structurally sound. 

The two people found dead after the blast at 4201 Hickory Dr. were co-owners of the house — Robert Nadler and his spouse, Diane Page. It has since been revealed that Nadler was convicted of murder in the 1980s and spent about 10 years in prison before being released on parole. 

On Wednesday, Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie and Mississauga Fire Chief Tim Beckett gave the media a tour of the damaged area.

"It could be weeks to months before people return," Beckett told reporters. "It'll all be dependent on how quickly the contractor works and gets the building code order lifted."

Barbara Castleberry lives at one of the 69 residences still considered off limits due to safety concerns. She said the damage is "extensive" and some buildings appear to be sinking.

"I haven't been told, but in your gut you know," she said. "Right now, I don't have anything prepared."

Another resident, Irene Chow, was able to get inside her house to have a peek before police officers told her to leave. 

"I saw glass everywhere and I think the ceiling collapsed on the main floor and all the window frames are gone," Chow said. "All my furniture flew outside. It's a disaster."

Everyone affected by the blast is waiting for the final report to find out how best to move forward. 

"At this point, it doesn't look like it's weeks. It might be months, if not a year — or even beyond that," said Castleberry.

Insurance companies still have yet to decide when people can return to their homes; they're still waiting for answers from officials. 

Peel police have said previously that it "will take some time" to determine the cause of the explosion.