Man dies after gas leak in Bernal Heights home

Firefighters were unable to resuscitate the unconscious man found at the scene.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:37am by Ben Kaplan

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San Francisco firefighters responded to a report of a gas leak in a Bernal Heights home on Saturday evening, where they found an unconscious man who later died at the scene. Pacific Gas and Electric Co. had requested the fire department's help gaining access to several homes while the utility investigated the gas leak.

Why it matters

Gas leaks can be extremely dangerous, posing risks of fire, explosion, and asphyxiation. This tragic incident highlights the importance of prompt response and safety protocols when gas leaks are detected in residential areas.

The details

When firefighters arrived at the 3900 block of Mission Street, they found an adult man unconscious and in need of resuscitation. Despite the responders' efforts, the man died at the scene. The gas leak appeared to be isolated, and the man was the only person in need of emergency care.

  • The fire department responded to the incident just after 6 p.m. on Saturday.
  • PG&E crews were on the scene controlling the gas leak at 7 p.m. on Friday.

The players

San Francisco Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the gas leak and emergency call.

Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E)

The utility company that requested the fire department's assistance in investigating the gas leak.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of robust gas leak detection and emergency response protocols to protect public safety in residential areas.