Family of Five Killed in Cabin Explosion in Washington State

A family of five was killed when a cabin near Brinnon, Washington exploded on June 10, 2018 at about 1:00 a.m. Officials are trying to determine what caused the explosion; a propane tank may have caused the accident. The cabin was located on Hood Canal.

Two adults and three small children were tragically killed in this explosion. Brinnon Fire Chief Tim Manly told WMUR that the family was from Monroe, Washington, and spent weekends at the cabin.

Coroner Michael Haas told WMUR that the parents have been identified as Jenny and Jerry Drake. Their children were 11, 8, and 2 years old.

Neighbors reported the explosion and said that the hillside was on fire. The cabin was engulfed in flames and is completely destroyed.

Officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab are investigating this tragedy.

Our deepest sympathies go out to the loved ones of this family.

Propane Tank Explosions Cause Tragedies

Unfortunately, there have been many tragedies caused by exploding propane tanks. The tanks can leak gas, which is extremely combustible. A small spark caused by turning on a light switch or using a phone can trigger the explosion.

These tanks can be problematic if they are not properly maintained or serviced. An odorant is added to LP gas and natural gas, because in their natural state, both gases are odorless. But that odorant can fade in propane tanks if the tanks are not properly filled, or if the tank is new. And without that odorant, no one can detect a leak.

The attorneys at Pritzker Hageman can help families who have lost loved ones in propane tank and natural gas explosion tragedies. Call 1-888-377-8900 for help.

Source

Robinson, Chelsea and AP. “Family of 5 killed in explosion at vacation cabin.” WMUR.com, June 12, 2018.