IRON RIVER, Mich. – A tragic explosion in Iron River on Saturday night caused a house to collapse, sending debris across multiple blocks and damaging neighboring homes. The 80-year-old homeowner was killed in the explosion, but thankfully, no one else was injured from the blast, according to Iron River City Police Chief Curt Harrington.
Jackie Orullien, a neighbor who lived next door to the house that exploded, described the disorienting moments after the explosion, saying, “I thought it was a bomb but then we realized something had happened outside. All the power was out and there was glass everywhere.”
Following the explosion, the American Red Cross was called to provide support, and nearby homeowners were evacuated to the Windsor Center for immediate shelter. Local community members also stepped in to help cover the cost of hotel rooms for the displaced homeowners, showing the tight-knit support system within the small town.
Meanwhile, the American Red Cross Disaster Program Specialist, Timothy Davis, highlighted their efforts to supply food for those impacted, acknowledging the challenges of not being able to access their homes or kitchens. “We wanted to make sure they had food in the meantime because they can’t get to their home. They don’t have access to their kitchen,” Davis said.
Law enforcement officials have stated that the cause of the explosion is still unknown as investigations continue. However, they have emphasized that no criminal activity is suspected at this time. As a safety measure, several roads in the area of 7th and 8th Avenue will remain closed until the investigation is completed.
The name of the man killed in the explosion has not been released at this time. The Windsor Center, which had been accepting donations, has since announced that they are no longer accepting donations due to the overwhelming support from the community. The incident has left the small town reeling, but the outpouring of support and aid from the community has been a testament to the resilience and compassion of the people of Iron River.