SOMERSET, KY – A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday morning, May 5, 2024, as an explosion rocked a residential neighborhood on Hidden Crest Drive in Somerset, KY. The blast, which occurred around 10:00amET, originated from a garage where fireworks were reportedly being stored.
The explosion claimed the life of 43-year-old Christopher Fineberg, a dedicated supervisor at AHF Manufacturing. Three other individuals sustained injuries from the blast but were fortunately treated for non-life-threatening wounds.
The impact of the explosion was devastating, destroying a car housed in the garage and causing damage to surrounding properties. The debris field extended approximately 200 yards from the epicenter, highlighting the magnitude of the explosion’s force.
Authorities, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Kentucky State Police, swiftly responded to the scene to investigate the circumstances surrounding the explosion. As they work to piece together what led to this tragic event, the community is left reeling from the loss of a valued member.
The investigation into the explosion behind the home on Hidden Crest Drive remains ongoing, as law enforcement officials and experts probe for answers. The safety protocols surrounding the storage and handling of fireworks may come under scrutiny as authorities seek to prevent such incidents in the future.
Neighbors and community members have come together to support one another during this challenging time, offering condolences to the family of Christopher Fineberg and wishing a speedy recovery to those injured in the explosion. The impact of such a tragedy reverberates throughout the neighborhood, serving as a sobering reminder of the importance of safety measures in handling hazardous materials.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are urging anyone with information related to the explosion to come forward and assist in shedding light on the sequence of events leading up to the fatal blast. The community remains vigilant as they seek closure and understanding in the aftermath of this unforeseen tragedy.