GHENT, WV - An explosion at a gas station and convenience store in Ghent, West Virginia killed four people and injured nine others earlier this month. A nearby elementary school was damaged but no children were hurt.

The blast occurred at 11 a.m., just as a fire truck was pulling into the station in response to a reported propane leak. According to West Virginia State Fire Marshal Sterling Lewis, an above-ground propane tank capable of holding 500 pounds was being repaired at the time of the blast. Investigators suspect that propane drifted into the Flat Top General Store, came into contact with an unknown ignition source, and exploded. The propane tank and the store's underground gasoline tanks did not explode. No evacuation was necessary.

The propane was used to heat pizza ovens inside the store.

Ignition source unknown
The investigation of the explosion is complete, said state Homeland Security Director Jimmy Gianato. A federal investigation continues. The damage was so extensive that an ignition source could not be identified. One possibility is static electricity. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), static electricity buildup in the dry winter months could be enough to touch off propane if the amount of gas present in the air is within its explosive range.

Killed in the blast were a paramedic, a building inspector, and two men working on the propane tank. Those injured included store employees and volunteer fire fighters.

The effects of the blast were felt a mile away, causing electricity outages and rattling homes and businesses.

Ghent is located about 70 miles southeast of Charleston.

Emergency Film Group’s program Propane, Butane & Propylene discusses the hazard properties of liquefied petroleum gases and covers appropriate safety measures for workers and emergency responders.