CHESTERTOWN — The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal is continuing its investigation into an explosion Saturday evening, Feb. 14 that resulted in the death of the 68-year-old homeowner and a family pet, as well as destroyed the house in the 6900-block of Pentridge Lane, near Chestertown.
The fire marshal’s office identified the deceased as Charles William “Chip” Heaps.
Heaps, his wife, and their children and grandchildren — a total of six people — were in the house at the time of the explosion, which was reported at about 5:45 p.m.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered the one-and-a-half-story house fully engulfed in flames. They were told that one occupant remained inside, while five other family members had gotten out safely.
Due to the extensive structural damage and collapse, firefighters conducted exterior suppression operations.
Excavators were called to the scene to assist with debris removal.
Working throughout the night, deputy state fire marshals located Heaps beneath multiple layers of debris, according to a news release Sunday from the OSFM.
According to the news release, the other family members were in a separate area of the house at the time of the explosion, allowing them to escape.
The family reported that the house exploded before becoming fully involved in fire.
Based on family members’ statements and scene examination, investigators believe Heaps was near a wood stove at the time of the incident.
While the exact cause remains under investigation, the explosion and subsequent fire are believed to have been triggered by an unspecified ignition source, including propane vapors and an electrical event, investigators reported.
“This is a tragic incident that underscores how quickly conditions inside a home can change when flammable gases or vapors are present. We urge residents to ensure heating equipment is properly maintained and to remain alert to any unusual odors or conditions inside their homes,” Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray said in a statement.
A joint investigation between the state fire marshal’s office and the Maryland State Police is standard procedure whenever a fatal fire occurs.
According to the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation, the circa 1995 house with attached garage sits on 8.2 acres. The fire marshal’s office estimated property loss at $2 million.
