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Pennsylvania House Blast and Fire Kill Mother and Six Children

Investigators are examining a suspected propane leak inside the home.

Overview

  • The victims were identified as Sarah Stoltzfus, 34, and six children ages 11, 10, 8, 6, 5, and 3 after a Sunday morning explosion in Lamar Township, Clinton County.
  • Fire crews arrived to find the home fully engulfed, which blocked any attempt to reach those trapped inside.
  • Police said a possible propane leak inside the residence is the leading line of inquiry, though the exact cause has not been confirmed.
  • The State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit is leading the forensic work, and investigators said the exterior propane tanks did not explode.
  • A neighbor reported a loud blast and said flames swallowed the house within about a minute, and local Old Order Amish community members later gathered to help and mourn.