Clay County Deputies and firefighters have located two bodies in the rubble of a home that exploded early Friday morning in rural Excelsior Springs. The individuals are believed to be the residents of the destroyed house. The Medical Examiner was called to the scene to confirm their identities, and their names will be released once identification is confirmed and next-of-kin notifications are completed.
The explosion occurred around 4:42 a.m. in the 14400 block of Kimberly Drive. Responding deputies found the house completely destroyed by the blast, which triggered a significant fire. The force of the explosion was so intense that it could be felt and seen miles away, with some neighboring houses having their doors blown open by the shockwave.
Two people were known to reside at the home, but it was unclear initially whether they were present at the time of the blast. Deputies discovered a dog in the debris, appearing to have been killed by the explosion. Missouri Search and Rescue K-9 Unit and the Excelsior Springs Fire Department have been working diligently to search for any individuals who may have been trapped in the debris.
Investigators on the scene have found no evidence of foul play at this time. The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office was working to determine the cause of the explosion. The house reportedly used propane, and representatives from the Missouri Propane Safety Commission were also present to assist with the investigation.
No injuries were reported among neighbors, although some nearby homes did sustain damage from the blast.
