Two people were severely burned after gas leaking into their camper ignited and caused an explosion on Saturday in Old Orchard Beach, officials said.
Old Orchard Beach Fire and EMS responded to reports of a park model camper explosion at Powder Horn Campground at about 12:30 p.m. on Saturday. At the scene, first responders found two women who had sustained significant burn injuries, according to a news release on Sunday from the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
The remaining fire was quickly extinguished and both women were taken to Maine Medical Center in Portland.
Due to the nature of the incident and extent of the injuries, the Fire Marshal’s office was asked to conduct a post-blast investigation.
Initial findings indicate that liquefied petroleum gas – which is often used for cooking, heating and cooling of campers – was leaking both into and beneath the camper, which is believed to have ignited when one of the occupants lit a candle.
Officials said the investigation is ongoing and Maine Solid Fuel Inspectors will assist in the further analysis of the gas systems.