Louisiana State Fire Marshal Bryan Adams said a deadly house explosion that killed one and injured five was likely fueled by a propane leak.
Deuce Barrere, 16, was killed a week ago at the home in Ragley, Louisiana. Barrere, a student at Theodore High School, was there helping family move into a newly constructed house.
Adams said propane was used for utilities at the home.
When firefighters arrived on the scene following the explosion, they found a large debris field, fire and several victims.
Those injured were a 42-year-old man and a 40-year-old woman who are the married homeowners and their two-year-old son, Barrere’s 37-year-old mother and his 18-year-old sister. They all remain hospitalized.
“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,” said Adams.
Adams said propane leaks typically have a rotten egg odor. Anyone who suspects a leak should leave the building and call 911.
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