Probe Underway Into Blast That Critically Injured 1

CARY, IL — The cause of a home explosion at a home near Cary remains under investigation as authorities work to determine what caused the blast.

The explosion and blaze at the home in the 6700 block of Pheasant Trail in unincorporated Cary happened at about 1:30 p.m. on Sunday. The blast blew the doors and windows off the front of the home, according to a news release from the Cary Fire Protection District.

Fire crews responding to the incident found a man who'd sustained critical injuries on the ground outside the home.

Alex Vucha, public information officer for the Cary Fire Protection District, said it's unclear how he ended up outside.

"It was reported that the man was inside the house at the time of the initial explosion. Upon arrival, firefighters located him outside on the ground," Vucha said. "Whether he exited on his own or was thrown during the blast remains unclear and may remain that way for an undetermined amount of time."

An update on his condition was not immediately available Monday, authorities said.

• Man Critically Injured After Home Explodes Near Cary

Authorities did say the fire was isolated to the single residence and there was no threat to surrounding homes or the general public, according to a news release from the fire protection district.

Nicor Gas, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and the Cary Fire Protection District are investigating the incident and "closely examining the events that led up to it," authorities said Monday. And no additional details are being released surrounding the explosion and blaze.

Brad Delatorre, fire chief for the Cary Fire Protection District, said he's grateful no one else was injured in the blast. He also lauded the quick actions of firefighters who responded to the dangerous situation.

“Our firefighters entered a hazardous scene without knowing what caused the explosion, but they were determined to contain the fire and render aid to the occupant who had sustained pretty serious burns," Delatorre said. "Their quick actions, along with help from our neighboring departments, brought the situation under control safely.”

The blast did not cause any damage to any nearby homes, Vucha said.

"The adjacent homes were not affected by the incident," he added.