LYON COUNTY—Authorities investigating the cause of a fatal home explosion in Lyon County have identified the two victims as Darrell Bontrager, 78 and Terry Bontrager, 73, both of Emporia. The Bontrager’s were known residents of the home , according to Christine Torrens with the city of Emporia.
Just before 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, Emporia emergency crews were dispatched to a report of a house explosion near E 6th Avenue and Weaver Street, according to Torrens.
Emporia Police and Fire Departments responded 1814 E 6th Avenue. The home had collapsed, and was fully engulfed with fire within minutes.
Around 8:30 pm, emergency workers found the bodies within the debris.
Preliminary investigation into the explosion appears to be accidental.
The exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation by the Emporia Fire Department with assistance from the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Emporia Police Department. Authorities do not suspect foul play at this time.