Somerset, Kentucky – An investigation is currently underway following a tragic explosion on Hidden Crest Drive that resulted in the loss of a resident’s life over the weekend.
The incident occurred early Saturday morning, claiming the life of 43-year-old Chris Fineberg in an explosion that tore through an outbuilding on the property. Fineberg, who worked as a supervisor at AHF Manufacturing, was known to have a side business crafting and selling fireworks around the Fourth of July.
Reports from Pulaski Director of Emergency Management Director Don Franklin suggest that the explosion was caused by the ignition of fireworks stored inside the shed. Two other individuals were also injured in the blast, with details on their conditions yet to be disclosed as of Monday afternoon.
Aside from the devastation to the shed, Fineberg’s residence and surrounding properties suffered damage from the explosion. The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office has urged the public to steer clear of the area due to the extensive debris field spanning approximately 200 yards.
Neighbor David Daring, who witnessed the explosion from his home on Hidden Crest Drive, described hearing a loud bang followed by crackling sounds and observed a column of smoke with luminous orbs emerging from it. The reverberations of the blast were reported to have been heard for miles around, prompting a temporary closure of the area in the aftermath.
Multiple law enforcement agencies and emergency response teams, including ATF, PCSO, Somerset Police Department, Kentucky State Police, and various fire departments, swiftly mobilized to the scene to conduct investigations and provide assistance.
Efforts to determine the cause of the explosion are currently led by Sergeant Ron Hellard from PCSO, with ATF focusing on assessing the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. Residents are advised to refrain from handling any debris they encounter and instead report findings to the appropriate authorities for prompt action.