A mother and her six young children were killed early Sunday morning when a massive explosion leveled their Pennsylvania home. Authorities believe a propane leak inside the residence triggered the blast, which was followed by an intense fire.
The children involved in the tragedy were all under the age of 12, with ages ranging from 3 to 11 years old. Emergency crews arrived within minutes of the initial explosion but found the structure completely engulfed in flames.
The heat from the fire was so extreme that first responders and neighbors were unable to approach the building to attempt a rescue. Witnesses described a deafening boom that rattled windows throughout the neighborhood before the sky turned orange with fire.
Local police officials confirmed on Monday that the intensity of the blaze made it impossible for anyone to survive the initial moments of the disaster. Fire marshals are currently sifting through the debris to determine exactly how the propane leak originated.
This horrific event has left the small community in a state of shock as they mourn the loss of an entire family. Grief counselors have been made available to local residents and the first responders who witnessed the devastating scene.
Pennsylvania State Police are leading the investigation into the mechanical failure or accidental cause that led to the gas buildup. No other injuries were reported in the surrounding area, though several nearby homes sustained minor damage from the shockwave.
As of Monday morning, the names of the mother and her children have not been officially released to the public. Investigators expect to remain at the site for several days to ensure all evidence is properly collected and analyzed.
The tragedy highlights the extreme dangers of gas leaks in residential areas and the speed at which such accidents can turn fatal. Community leaders are planning a vigil to honor the lives lost in what is being called a heart-wrenching catastrophe.