Propane leak likely caused Wyatt, Mo. home explosion, investigators say

WYATT, Mo. (KFVS) - According to the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office, investigators believe the cause of a house explosion in Wyatt on Monday was from propane gas that filled the home.

The white propane tank, authorities believe provided gas, can still be seen where the house once stood.

A total of ten people, including children, were inside the home when it exploded.

A 23-year-old man, Corey Coleman, died from his injuries in the blast.

The other nine victims, from the ages of six months and mid-20s, were transported or flown to hospitals. Their injures ranged from serious to life-threatening.

As of Tuesday, the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office reported two of the nine victims are in critical condition and the other seven are in stable condition.

While investigators say they may never know what ignited that gas from the propane tank, they believe it leaked out of either the cook stove or the water heater.

The sheriff’s office said the explosion has been ruled accidental, but the investigation continues.

Foul play or drugs is not suspected.

The tragedy has authorities in Mississippi County wanting the public to be aware of what they can do and look out for to keep their family safe.

The sheriff’s office took to social media Tuesday afternoon to share several ways to check for a gas leak in your own home.

The first step is to recognize you have a leak. If you smell an odor of rotten eggs or a gassy smell, leave the building before calling your utility company or 911.

Do not open a window or do anything that could create a spark. If it’s safe to check your stove, make sure you don’t have a burner turned on.

They urge not to forget other gas appliances, which can include a water heater or heating and cooling system.

Authorities also suggest checking your propane tank levels every week to make sure you don’t have a leak.

They stress, if you smell gas in your home, leave immediately then call 911 and report the incident.

Do not use your cell phone or landline phone inside the residence.

Copyright 2022 KFVS. All rights reserved.