Gas company worker critically injured in motel explosion is improving, friends say

BREMERTON, Wash. – While all guests and staff escaped Tuesday night's gas line explosion at the Motel 6 in Bremerton, a utility worker was critically injured in the blast. Friends say he is now improving.

According to his family and his colleagues, Larry Jennings has worked for Cascade Natural Gas for more than 30 years. His wife Lynette says she is so thankful for all the prayers and support they’ve received.

The Jennings’ family friends, Cindy and Matt Mathisen, say his condition is improving.

“We’re thrilled to be able to tell you that Larry has made remarkable progress throughout the night and the day,” Cindy Mathisen said Wednesday night.

As close friends for many years, the Mathisens say they know how seriously Larry takes his job with the gas company.

“Larry is one of the most conscientious guys I know; he would never take a shortcuts on anything,” said Matt Mathisen. “He’s definitely out there for the public. That’s what he was doing last night; he was making it safe.”

Bremerton Police continue to look for a woman, involved in a domestic violence call, who was seen near the gas meter before the explosion.

For the first time since the explosion, evacuees were allowed to return to grab their belongings from their rooms.