DERRY, N.H. – A tragic incident unfolded in a quiet New Hampshire town, resulting in the death of an elderly woman and hospitalization of a young girl after a house explosion. Emergency responders rushed to the scene on Goodhue Road in Derry following reports of a devastating blast at a residence around 11:40 a.m. on Thursday.
The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office confirmed the heartbreaking news that the elderly woman was found deceased in the home, while a juvenile female was swiftly transported to a local hospital and then transferred to a medical facility in Boston for further treatment. The identities of the victims have not been disclosed at this time, but it was revealed that they were family members and the only occupants in the house during the explosion.
Neighbors were shaken by the sudden and tragic event, with Gina Lubrun recounting how she reacted to the deafening noise of the explosion and rushed to the scene where she encountered a distressed young girl pleading for assistance. Lubrun’s quick thinking and efforts to aid the girl, who expressed concern for her grandmother trapped inside the collapsed home, were commendable.
Despite the ongoing investigation into the incident, authorities mentioned that a fallen tree had potentially struck a few propane tanks near the residence, leading to the catastrophic explosion. Fortunately, surrounding homes in the neighborhood were unaffected by the blast, offering some relief amid the devastation.
Derry Fire Chief Shawn Haggert acknowledged the challenges faced by responding crews due to inclement weather conditions but assured that they were diligently working to contain any remaining hot spots. The extensive damage to the home and the debris scattered in the vicinity painted a grim picture of the tragic event that unfolded that day.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the explosion, thoughts and prayers are extended to the affected family during this difficult time. The family provided an update that the 11-year-old girl is undergoing treatment for severe burn injuries at a Boston hospital, with a GoFundMe page established to support them in the wake of losing everything.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of coming together in times of tragedy. The community stands united in support of the affected family as they navigate through this challenging ordeal, hoping for the young girl’s swift recovery.