RAGLEY, La. (KPLC/Gray News) – Investigators in Louisiana say a propane leak is likely the cause of a deadly home explosion that killed a teenager over the weekend.
According to the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the house, which was newly constructed, used propane as a fuel utility.
The Brown family was in the process of moving into the home when the explosion happened last Saturday.
The homeowners were identified by the community as Nik Brown, 42, and Megan Brown, 40.
They have been receiving treatment for burns and injuries after the explosion along with their 2-year-old son.
Other family members were also in the home at the time of the explosion. Katherine Smith, 37, is showing stable vital signs. Her daughter, Brooklyn, 18, remains on a ventilator but is improving.
However, Smith’s 16-year-old son Deuce Barrere did not survive.
Officials said the source of the propane and the source of the ignition remains under investigation.
“This continues to be a devastating experience for this family and a terrifying one for the community, but we remain committed to getting answers for everyone in an effort to not only understand what led to this tragedy but to try to prevent it for other families in the future,” State Fire Marshal Chief Bryan J. Adams said.
A GoFundMe has been launched for the family’s funeral and medical expenses.
Copyright 2024 KPLC via Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.