Investigation underway into house explosion
UPDATE, 2:20 P.M. AUG. 26:
We have received an update from the Missouri State Fire Marshal. They did confirm there was a gas leak in the home. They stated:
“Because of the force of the explosion and extent of structural damage, no cause could be identified as to the source of the gas leak or the ignition source. The Missouri Division of Fire Safety classified the explosion as undetermined.”
It will take up to 30 days for their full incident report to be available.
UPDATE, 1:45 P.M. AUG. 26
The deceased victims in this incident are identified as 70-year-old Oliver W. Campbell and 65-year-old Katherine A. Campbell. Both lived at the house at 14406 Kimberly Dr.
The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office will determine the cause of the explosion. They have estimated that could take up to 30 days.
UPDATE, 12:25 P.M. AUG. 23:
Deputies and firefighters have now located two bodies in the rubble of the home, believed to be the residents. The Medical Examiner is responding to the scene, and we will share the names of the deceased once their identities have been confirmed and next-of-kin notification is complete.
ORIGINAL, 11:24 A.M. AUG. 23:
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a house explosion in rural Excelsior Springs.
We started receiving calls at 4:42 a.m. today about a house that exploded in the 14400 block of Kimberly Drive. When deputies arrived on scene, they found the house was completely destroyed, and a fire was burning. The blast could be felt and seen for many miles and blew open the doors of neighbors’ houses.
Two people reside at the home, but we do not know whether they were home at the time of the blast. Deputies did locate a dog that appears to have been killed by the explosion. Deputies are trying to determine whether anyone is in the debris of the house with the help of Missouri Search and Rescue Canines and the Excelsior Springs Fire Department.
Investigators have found no evidence of foul play at this point. The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office is on scene working to determine the cause. Representatives from the Missouri Propane Safety Commission also are on scene. The house used propane.
No neighbors were hurt, though some reported damage to their homes. Investigation is ongoing.
Subscribe to news releases and never miss an update.