OKLAHOMA CITY (NewsNation Now) — A girl is dead and several of her family members were injured in a Thursday morning house explosion in Oklahoma City, officials said.
The explosion, which happened before 7 a.m. CDT, could be heard more than 30 miles away, NewsNation affiliate KFOR-TV reported.
There were four people inside the home at the time of the explosion, including the girl. The other three people were taken to the hospital, according to the Oklahoma City Fire Department.
“This was a fairly large house that exploded, and we don’t know the cause for sure at this point. There were four people, a family; a mom, a dad, and two children. One of the children did not survive and the other three were transported,” Chief Benny Fulkerson said.
The Oklahoma Medical Examiner’s Office identified the girl who died as 14-year-old Berklee McGuire. Her fauther is listed in serious condition while her mother and brother suffered burns.
Neighbors reported to KFOR-TV the father said he was shocked while plugging in a coffee maker when the blast happened. Investigators say the explosion was caused by leaking propane from an illegal log lighter.
The house was destroyed, and three nearby homes suffered damage.
“Sarah and I are heartbroken by the news of an explosion at a home in Edmond this morning and the tragic loss of a child. I am actively monitoring the situation and have offered our full support as the response and investigation into this incident continues. Please keep the family and our first responders in your prayers at this time,” Gov. Kevin Stitt said in a statement.
