Man charged after loud explosion in Scranton

SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — A man was arrested after allegedly burning garbage in his backyard that caused a major explosion.

According to the criminal complaint, crews were dispatched to the 1600 block of Elizabeth Street after multiple calls indicated they heard a loud explosion.

Upon arrival, the Scranton Fire Department stated they made contact with 45-year-old Salvatore Marcel Licata who explained he was putting garbage in the pool and burning it due to him covering up the pool.

Officers say they spoke with Licata’s wife who says Licata did not think the explosion was loud and he used approximately five gallons of gasoline to start the fire.

Two 911 callers told police he felt their houses shake once the explosion occurred, as noted in the criminal complaint.

Officials say once the fire was put out, it appeared to be mostly garbage and tree branches and once Licata lit the match into the pool it caused an immediate explosion.

As stated in court documents, Licata committed an act that risked the Scranton Fire Department in danger of death or serious bodily injury due to them responding in an emergent manner to a possible gas explosion in an occupied neighborhood.

Licata was charged with risking a catastrophe and recklessly endangering another person.

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