Officials: Propane line inadvertently cut, metal grinder ignited gas in Annapolis house explosion
ANNAPOLIS, Md. —
Fire investigators have determined a cause of a fatal house explosion last week in Cape St. Claire.
Video above: 1 dead in house explosion as ATF sifts through debris
Linda Synowczynski, 76, was killed in the explosion Thursday afternoon on Green Holly Drive, and a man rescued from the debris remains hospitalized in serious condition.
The Anne Arundel County Fire Department Fire Marshal Division, Fire/Arson/Explosives Unit conducted an investigation in coordination with federal and state officials.
Investigators determined the explosion was accidental and originated from an accumulation of propane gas inside the house.
Propane line was inadvertently cut, investigators say
Investigators said the homeowner was performing work on the home’s HVAC system when a propane line was inadvertently cut. The homeowner was unaware that a damaged line allowed propane gas to leak and accumulate inside the house.
While continuing to work in the area, the homeowner subsequently used a metal grinder, which investigators identified as the ignition source that caused the explosion, officials said.
Family members told investigators that the homeowner has a diminished sense of smell, which may have affected his ability to detect the odor associated with the leaking propane.
Investigators previously determined that the propane company that responded to the house Thursday did not contribute to the explosion.
Officials offer general safety advisory for propane and natural gas
Propane and natural gas are highly flammable. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the area immediately and call 811 (Miss Utility) or 911 if it is an emergency.
Do not operate lights, appliances, phones, vehicles or other equipment that could create a spark near the suspected leak.
Never attempt to locate or repair a gas leak yourself. Gas-related work, including work involving propane lines or appliances, should be performed by qualified professionals. Because some people may have a diminished sense of smell, never rely solely on your ability to detect an odor.
It is always a good idea to install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms as recommended and have fuel-burning appliances inspected regularly.