Richland, MO – Authorities in Pulaski County confirm the person who died early Thursday in a house explosion in Richland, is an elderly woman.
Pulaski County Coroner Mikel Hartness tells KOLR10 News the 78 year old woman is not being identified until her family is notified.An autopsy will be performed in Springfield, which is routine in fatal fires.The woman’s husband escaped the blast and subsequent fire.
The explosion was reported about 2:30 Thursday morning.The Tri-County Fire Protection District reported the suspected gas leak caused”catastrophic damage” to the house.
The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating.Mike McConnell with the Missouri Department of Public Safety tells KOLR10 News the cause appears to be accidental.
A cook stove may be where the the explosion occurred.The Missouri Propane Commission and propane company are both involved in the investigation.