WEST MANHEIM TOWNSHIP, Pa. — A tragic incident unfolded on Monday morning in West Manheim Township, York County, when a house explosion resulted in a devastating fire that claimed two lives and injured three firefighters.
The victims have been identified as 79-year-old Ronald Richard and 4-year-old Chase Bucher. According to York County Coroner Pam Gay, the fire broke out at the 2000 block of Black Rock Road due to an explosion caused by smoking inside a closed garage at the home. Richard, who was wheelchair-bound and on oxygen, was smoking at the time of the explosion. Bucher, who was visiting the home, tragically died from smoke inhalation and thermal burns.
Pleasant Hill Fire Department Chief Ted Clousher revealed that five people, a dog, and a cat were inside the home at the time of the fire. He also reported that the closest fire hydrant was a mile and a half away, making it difficult for firefighters to treat the fire.
Three firefighters were taken to a local hospital for treatment. One firefighter was treated for smoke inhalation, while the other two were treated for high blood pressure. West Manheim Township Police are currently investigating the fire.
The cause of death for Richard remains pending, while Bucher’s death has been identified as accidental due to smoke inhalation and thermal burns. This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as the investigation continues.