Kent County house explosion on Valentine’s Day kills 68-year-old homeowner in Chestertown

CHESTERTOWN, MD. (WBFF) — A house explosion on Valentine’s Day in Kent County killed a 68-year-old homeowner and destroyed a Chestertown residence, while five family members escaped, according to the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal said it is continuing to investigate the explosion and fire that happened at 6904 Pentridge Court in Chestertown.

Firefighters from the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company and surrounding departments responded at about 5:45 p.m. for a reported house explosion.

When crews arrived, they found the home fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters were told one occupant was still inside and that five other family members had escaped safely.

Kent County house explosion on Valentine’s Day kills 68-year-old homeowner in Chestertown (Photo Credit – Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company)

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According to officials, due to the extensive structural damage and collapse, firefighters conducted exterior suppression operations. Excavators were requested to help remove debris.

Deputy state fire marshals worked throughout the night and found the homeowner, Charles William Heaps, 68, beneath multiple layers of debris.

Investigators said the five surviving occupants, identified as the victim’s wife, children, and grandchildren, were in a separate area of the home at the time of the explosion, allowing them to escape. A family pet also died in the fire.

The family reported the residence exploded before it became fully involved in fire.

Based on witness statements and an examination of the scene, investigators believe Heaps was operating near a wood stove at the time of the incident.

The exact cause remains under investigation, but officials said the explosion and subsequent fire are believed to have been triggered by an unspecified ignition source, including propane vapors and an electrical event.

Damage was estimated at $2 million, and the home is considered a total loss.

“This is a tragic incident that underscores how quickly conditions inside a home can change when flammable gases or vapors are present,” Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray said. “We urge residents to ensure heating equipment is properly maintained and to remain alert to any unusual odors or conditions inside their homes.”