Neighbors react to explosion arrests

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - A special community meeting was held for Richmond Hill neighbors Friday afternoon where they were briefed on the investigation and arrests. 

Liz Kelley says she was pleased to hear the news.

"Knowing that those allegedly responsible are behind bars – that's comforting,” said Kelley.

41 days have passed since the explosion. Crews continue to tear down damaged homes. The once vibrant neighborhood is now filled with empty lots but also a sense of relief over the arrests.

"This is the next step that we have getting into the rebuilding of the neighborhood, getting these peoples lives back," said neighbor Doug Aldridge.

Neighbors say with the sense of relief over the arrests comes with sense of sorrow. Sorrow over the senseless loss of Jennifer and Dion Longworth. 

"We are not going to be able to bring (them) back. Our hearts go out so much for those two," said Aldridge.

24-Hour News 8 spoke to neighbors who said they are feeling a third emotion of anger.

Anger over learning the Nov. 10 explosion was a second attempt to blow up the house, and anger over the motive laid out by the prosecutor.

A motive of money.

"They did it for insurance money. Then all of us who are victims are fighting insurance companies to get paid of for something we didn't ask for. It was extreme anger," said Kelley.

Neighbors say they've been living in a haze for the past five weeks.

They are hopeful the arrests will enable them to better enjoy the Christmas holiday.