Man Hospitalized After House Explosion near Willmar, Minnesota

A man from western Minnesota was severely injured with burns after a house explosion on the 1300 block of Highway 9 NE in Benson, Minnesota. Benson is northwest of Willmar.

The man, 51-year-old Brian Orsten, was first transported to the Swift County Benson Hospital. Doctors there determined that he needed more treatment and he was airlifted to Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) in Minneapolis.  HCMC is a Level 1 Trauma Center.

The house explosion occurred at 3:55 pm on Monday, May 21, 2018. The explosion is being investigated by the Swift County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota Fire Marshal. No update on the cause of the explosion has been issued. On social media, Mr. Orsten’s family said that he is in stable condition, and will probably require skin grafts on his hands, which have received third-degree burns. The family is asking for prayers.

The explosion happened in the basement, seriously burning his hands. Displaying impressive coolness of mind, Orsten climbed out of the basement and turned off the residence’s propane tank before driving away.

A House Explosion Can Cause Serious Burn Injuries

Most people think that burn injuries from explosions mostly happen in industrial areas. But industries generally have high-quality safety training programs, strict safety and maintenance procedures, and employees with expertise in dealing with the hazards at the site.

As a result, the American Burn Association (ABA) reports that burn injuries at the workplace make up less than 10% of the total, while residential explosions are responsible for over 70% of burn injuries.

Explosions can cause several different types of injuries in addition to burns. These include crush injuries, brain injuries, heart, lung, and ear damage. Smoke from a fire caused by the explosion can contain toxic compounds that can damage the lungs and brain.

The Minneapolis law firm of Pritzker Hageman has years of experience  advocating for survivors of fire and explosions, as well as representing families of people killed in those tragedies. They recently obtained $10 million in compensation for people who were badly burned.

If you think you may have a case, contact them at 1-888-377-8900 or 1-612-338-0202. Tell them about your unique situation and find out what legal rights you have. The consultation is free, and does not obligate you to do anything more.

Sources

WCCO, “Sheriff: Man Hurt In House Explosion Near Willmar.” CBS Minnesota, May 22, 2018.

Cola, JP, “Benson man injured in house explosion.” Willmarradio.com, May 22, 2018.