Homeowner burned, can’t speak following garage blast
He remains hospitalized, faces numerous surgeries
A man in his 70s is recuperating after a propane-powered space heater developed a leak and exploded, destroying the garage to his Warren home.
The incident took place about 5 p.m. Sunday on the 27200 block of Bunert Road, north of Interstate 696
Authorities said the large blaze left the resident with second- and third- degree burns to his hands and face, and unable to speak. He faces numerous surgeries, according to the Warren Fire Department.
“Not a pleasant thing to go through,” said Fire Commissioner Skip McAdams.
Investigators said a fire broke out in the breezeway connecting the house to the garage.
The homeowner had stored multiple propane tanks of various sizes in the garage as well as cans of gasoline. The fuel was used to power the space heater
When the fire started, it ignited on other combustibles, the fire commissioner said.
“There were two cars that the resident tinkered with in the garage,” McAdams said. “Those are pretty much gone.”
While trying to extinguish the growing fire, the man was burned to his face, hands and arms. At that point, officials said, he had his wife dial 911.
No other injuries were reported. Responding fire crews took about 30 minutes to get the blaze under control.
Investigators have ruled the fire as accidental, McAdams said. He said the homeowner remains in stable condition in Detroit Receiving Hospital, but is expected to survive.
McAdams added the homeowner must undergo multiple medical procedures to de-burn his skin.
The blast caused “significant” damage to the house. The structure is expected to be boarded up.
The couple has property insurance, according to the Warren Fire Department.