LAFAYETTE, Wis. — A devastating blast disrupted the peace in the town of Lafayette, leading to a harrowing rescue and the eventual death of a local man, authorities reported Wednesday. The explosion, which tore through a residence on Kulow Road Tuesday afternoon, resulted in 68-year-old Leland Holden being airlifted to a trauma center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office received multiple calls around 2:18 p.m. reporting the explosion. Responders found Holden trapped near the basement rubble, prompting an immediate rescue operation. “My crews established verbal contact with the victim quickly, but it took them close to 40 minutes to reach him through the debris,” explained Elkhorn Fire Chief Trent Eichmann.
Following his rescue, Holden was transported by Flight for Life, although details regarding his initial condition were not immediately made public. Confirmation of his death was announced the following day by the Sheriff’s Office. According to fire officials, Holden was the only person in the home at the time of the incident.
The force of the explosion resonated beyond the immediate vicinity, with reports of the impact felt in nearby towns including La Grange and the Town of Lyons. “The explosion was not only heard but also felt in the neighboring communities,” Chief Eichmann stated.
Investigators are exploring the possibility that propane, used widely in the area as an alternative to natural gas, could be linked to the explosion, though the official cause remains under investigation. The incident apparently was isolated to Holden’s residence, with no other properties affected.
The tragedy has sparked an examination of propane safety protocols in residential areas, highlighting the potential risks associated with its use. Community members and local authorities are awaiting the full investigative report, hoping for answers that could prevent future incidents.
In the meantime, the community mourns the loss of Holden, described by neighbors as a long-time resident and known for his involvement in local activities. The incident has also prompted discussions about the importance of emergency preparedness and awareness of the signs of gas leaks or related dangers in homes.
Authorities continue to sift through the debris and gather evidence to piece together the sequence of events that led to such a devastating outcome. The ongoing investigation is crucial not only for the grieving family but also for the community’s overall safety, ensuring that the necessary measures are taken to avert similar tragedies.
As the town of Lafayette copes with the recent event, support from surrounding communities and local disaster response teams has been instrumental in managing the aftermath and beginning the process of healing and reconstruction. The focus remains on supporting those affected and enhancing safety standards to safeguard against future emergencies.