Fire Marshals Investigating Fatal House Explosion in Chestertown

Images Courtesy of Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company

CHESTERTOWN, Md. – The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal and Maryland State Police are investigating a house explosion that killed one on Saturday evening.

At 5:45 p.m. on Feb. 14, the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company (CVFC) and other local departments responded to a residence on Pentridge Court for a reported house explosion. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a house fully engulfed in flames. Five family members had managed to escape safely, but crews were advised that one occupant and a pet remained inside. 

Due to the extensive structural damage and collapse, firefighters conducted exterior suppression operations. No interior operations were attempted. Excavators were requested to the scene to assist with debris removal. Ultimately, the homeowner and victim, identified as 68-year-old Charles Williams Heaps, was located under multiple layers of rubble. Crews remained on scene until 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 15. 

Officials say the five surviving occupants, identified as Heaps’s wife, children, and grandchildren, were located in a separate area of the residence at the time of the explosion. The family reported that the home exploded before becoming fully involved in fire. Based on their statements and scene examination, investigators believe Heaps was operating near a wood stove at the time of the incident. While the exact cause remains under investigation, officials say the explosion and fire were likely triggered by an unspecified ignition source, such as propane vapors or an electrical event. 

“This is a tragic incident that underscores how quickly conditions inside a home can change when flammable gases or vapors are present,” said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. “We urge residents to ensure heating equipment is properly maintained and to remain alert to any unusual odors or conditions inside their homes.”

The total damage to the home and its contents is estimated to be valued at two million dollars. The home is considered a total loss.

CVFC reports that over 100 thousand gallons of water were used from the domestic water system in town limits. As a result, homes may have temporarily experienced water discoloration. Additionally, as fire suppression operations were winding down, a water main break occurred in the 100 block of Flatland Road. Chestertown Water Utilities reportedly responded to the break the following morning.