MAY 17, 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEWS RELEASE #21-0517-1
CONTACT: SHERIFF TIM MORSE 785-364-2251
Preliminary results from explosion
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is providing an update on the investigation into the explosion that occurred last Monday evening at 27284 Q.4 Road north of Holton. The Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office have been involved in the investigation into the cause of the explosion. On Friday, an area around the residence was excavated for investigative purposes. The preliminary results of the investigation indicate the following:
- The explosion was not a result of a criminal act.
- It is confirmed that the explosion was that of a propane explosion.
- A sizeable amount of propane is believed to be missing from the propane tank, which potentially leaked into the residence.
- It is believed that an unidentifiable leak occurred inside the residence. Little to no part of the residence remains intact. This makes the investigation even more challenging.
- It is unknown what the actual source was that ignited the explosion.
- It is also believed that both victims were inside the residence at the time of the explosion. This is believed due to the type of injuries that both victims sustained.
The body of the deceased victim underwent an autopsy, and investigators will be reviewing those results when they become available as well.
Further testing and investigation is expected to be conducted by the home owner’s insurance company.