Bridgton, ME – Fire investigators say Tuesday night’s mobile home explosion in Bridgton was caused by escaping propane.
Maine State Police say the homeowner, 84-year-old Thomas Hunt, had changed the supply bottle of propane and was bleeding the air from the line when propane continued to leak into the home and ignited.
His next door neighbor, Leonard Carsley, witnessed the explosion and rushed to help Hunt from his burning home.
Police say Hunt did not want to leave the home at first, but Carsley forcefully helped Hunt out of the building, probably saving his life. The home was a total loss.
Hunt was taken Maine Medical Center in Portland where he is undergoing treatment for significant burns to his body. He is listed in fair condition.
Police say Hunt was the only person living in the home.