Angier Police reveal source of explosion that damaged townhomes, left resident badly burned
ANGIER, N.C. (WTVD) -- Angier Police said Thursday that a home explosion early Wednesday morning was caused by a resident who fired multiple shots at a propane tank.
The blast, which happened about 6:10 a.m. in the 20 block of Birbury Way, forced people to be evacuated from nearby homes.
Angier Police Chief Lee Thompson said first responders found the man who lived there in the yard outside the back of the townhome. He was badly burned and taken to UNC-Chapel Hill Burn Center.
On Thursday, police described his wounds as "self-inflicted," and said that a last will and testament was found at the scene.
The man suffered severe burns on 90% of his body, police said
The townhome unit appeared to have exploded from the inside out, authorities said. The garage on the front of the home was blown off by the explosion.
Because of the threat of additional explosives, Angier Police requested bomb squad assistance. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Bomb Squad and Raleigh Police Department Bomb Squad responded.
The area was cleared, and no further explosive threats were found. Police said this was an isolated incident and there were no further threats to the public.
People who lived beside the townhome where the explosion took place were moved across the street. At least three homes were affected, and about 20 people were forced out.
A temporary shelter was set up at Angier Baptist Church. The American Red Cross provided support to displaced residents and first responders.
As of Thursday morning, all other occupants except for one neighboring resident have been allowed back in their homes.
"We are extremely grateful for the swift and coordinated efforts of all local, state, and federal partners who responded during this critical incident," Thompson said. "Their professionalism and dedication ensured the safety and well-being of our community.
"Again, I want to thank all our neighboring agencies for their assistance," Thompson added.
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