One person dead after Nebraska home explodes, sets nearby house on fire, damages multiple other buildings
Nebraska authorities are investigating after a house exploded, killing one person and injuring another person in Wood River, Nebraska, on Saturday morning.
The incident happened around 9:15 a.m.
Hall County authorities said, the explosion destroyed the house and set fire to an adjacent home.
Multiple houses and businesses surrounding the residence also suffered "major damages," while almost two dozen other homes suffered "minor damages."
One person was taken to the hospital with minor injuries, and they have since been released.
On Sunday, the Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency said investigators found evidence of tampering with the natural gas system in the home.
Authorities said the cause of the explosion was arson and the suspect was located dead inside the basement of the home.
The State Fire Marshal Agency does not believe there is a threat of additional incidents and reiterates the explosion was not related to the natural gas utility operator.
The American Red Cross assisted residents who were affected by the explosion.
"The residents of Wood River can be very proud of their Fire Department and the efforts of the entire community in responding to this incident," said Jon Rosenlund, Emergency Management Director for Hall County.