Man dies of burn injuries suffered in Christmas Day fire

A Christmas Day flash fire caused by illegal use of natural gas has resulted in the death of a man in southwest Oklahoma City, firefighters reported.

Terry Bailey, 64, died Wednesday from injuries suffered in the fire, a state medical examiner’s office spokesman said. The death was ruled accidental.

About 10 a.m. Tuesday, firefighters were called to 11 SW 27, where residents had been using a garden hose to illegally supply a one-bedroom structure with natural gas from a nearby source.

A buildup of gas ignited and four people were taken to Integris Baptist Medical Center where Bailey died on Wednesday. One other person was in serious condition.

Oklahoma Natural Gas Company spokeswoman Cherokee Ballard said officials were investigating the incident.

“We extend our thoughts to all those affected by this event that occurred at 11 SW 27. We are cooperating with the Oklahoma City Fire Department and Police Department during the investigation,” Ballard said in a statement. “Safety is our top priority at Oklahoma Natural Gas and any changes or alterations to our equipment should only be made by authorized personnel.”

Twenty-three people in Oklahoma City died of firerelated causes in 2018, firefighters reported.

In 2017 and in 2016, there were 12 fire deaths in Oklahoma City. There were eight such deaths in 2015.