Home Explosion Caused By 'Significant' Propane Leak, Investigators Say

TOWN OF HURLEY, NY — Investigators say there was no foul play behind the massive house explosion that killed two people this week.

"The investigation has determined that the explosion and fire were accidental in nature," The New York State Police said in a statement released on Friday. "The primary cause was a significant amount of propane that leaked into the residence over an extended period of time."

The explosion could be felt miles away.

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.

"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Ralph Brueckner and Cheryl Hathaway," the Town of Hurley posted on social media on Friday. "We are a small community, and this tragedy has rippled through and affected many who knew them. The Town of Hurley offers its sincere condolences to Ralph and Cheryl's loved ones. Our hearts are with you."