2 Dead In Ulster County House Explosion, Authorities ID Victims

TOWN OF HURLEY, NY — A massive explosion that could be felt miles away has left two victims dead.

New York State Police said that on Wednesday, around noon, troopers responded to reports of a house explosion on Brueckner Lane, in the town of Hurley.

Once on the scene, troopers found the home completely leveled and engulfed in flames.

Fire departments from across Ulster County responded to the scene, in addition to fire investigators from Ulster County, the NYC Department of Environmental Protection Police, and the Ulster County Sheriff's Office.

The investigation found that the explosion resulted in the deaths of 75-year-old Ralph Brueckner, and 58-year-old Cheryl Hathaway, who both died from injuries in the blast.

New York State Police said their investigation is ongoing, with assistance from the Ulster County Fire Investigation Unit.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Police Kingston Bureau of Criminal Investigation at 845-338-1702.

An Ulster County Emergency Response update posted on social media on Wednesday evening said that they had responded to a structure fire following an explosion off Route 28A in West Hurley.

"Multiple local fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and emergency personnel were on the scene to contain the situation," the county department wrote. "While road closures may remain in effect throughout the day, there is no threat to public safety. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available. Thank you to all the first responders for their swift action!"