NEW GLOUCESTER, Maine — The cause of an explosion that killed one person at a home in New Gloucester on Saturday has been determined.
The state fire marshal's office reportedly determined the cause as a steam explosion caused by thermal runaway, Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson Shannon Moss said in a news release Monday.
In simpler terms, the home's furnace became overloaded with fuel, and once it began to burn it didn't stop, causing built-up pressure inside the boiler. That built-up pressure led to the failure of the boiler, ultimately causing the explosion, Moss explained. It was accidental in nature, Moss added.
The explosion was reported at about 12:15 p.m. Saturday, according to a previous release from Moss. Fire and rescue personnel responded to the home at 1342 Intervale Rd. An initial investigation indicated the homeowner, 44-year-old Lado Lodoka, was working on the furnace when the explosion happened.
Lodoka was killed by the explosion, Moss said. Another family member inside the home at the time of the explosion was able to get out safely.
The state fire marshal's office is now reminding the public that when working on home heating systems, it is recommended to seek out a licensed professional.
New Gloucester Fire and Rescue was assisted by fire departments from Pownal, Gray, Durham, Auburn, and North Yarmouth on Saturday afternoon. An inspector with Maine Solid Fuel and the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office were also at the scene.
