Illinois, South Carolina House Explosions Kill Two

A natural gas explosion in Crestwood, Illinois, resulted in the death of a 76-year-old man after his home was destroyed on Kenneth Court. Fire officials, including Crestwood Fire Chief Jonathan Newton, confirmed the explosion and subsequent fire were likely caused by natural gas, with responders carefully conducting a search due to safety concerns. The man's body was found in the basement hours after the incident, and Nicor along with the ATF are involved in the ongoing investigation. Neighbors described the blast as earthquake-like and expressed sorrow over the sudden tragedy, noting damage to nearby properties but no additional fatalities. In a separate incident, a deadly house fire in North Charleston, South Carolina, claimed another life, with authorities still investigating. Both cases highlight the ongoing risks associated with residential fires and explosions, prompting thorough fire department and coroner investigations.