(Columbia Gas)
BOSTON (WBZ-AM) -- Columbia Gas says it is now under a federal investigation in connection with the September gas explosions and fires in the Merrimack Valley.
Reuters reports initial grand jury subpoenas were served to the utility and its parents company, NiSource. The company said it is cooperating with investigators.
In the meantime, Columbia Gas said about 20 percent of homes affected now have service restored. More than 7,000 people are in alternative housing, and close to $40 million in claims has been paid out so far.