During the fire of Colona’s house, gunpowder caused an explosion

KOLONA, Il. (KWQC) – Colona Fire Department officials say an explosion occurred at a home Thursday while fighting a house fire.

Firefighters responded to a structure fire on Balleger Lane at 10:29 p.m. Firefighters at the scene saw heavy smoke and flames from a two-story house and began to attack the fire. According to the press report, during the attack, an explosion occurred from the basement, which distracted the firemen inside the house from the sound and impact.

Authorities say crews exited the home and everyone was accounted for, and no one was transported for injuries. After clearing the house, crews later used a containment operation to extinguish the fire. Firefighters put out the fire for several hours and left the scene at 3:30

Deputy Fire Chief Kirk Wyffels said no one was home at the time of the fire and the explosion was caused by explosives in the basement.

Fire officials say the house is a total loss and family members are helping the residents.

The Illinois State Fire Marshal will investigate the fire.

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