An explosion and subsequent fire devastated a home on South 7th Street near Princeton Avenue in Ann Arbor's Eberwhite and Old West Side neighborhoods. The incident occurred around 6 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 19, resulting in significant damage to the property and spreading debris across the area.

Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, although a man in his 70s, the resident of the house, suffered injuries and collapsed outside the burning home. He was swiftly taken to a hospital and is expected to recover from the ordeal.

Neighbors recounted the harrowing experience, with one resident, Dane Page, describing how they promptly alerted emergency services upon witnessing flames emerging from the damaged house. It was revealed that the man had been using propane tanks for heating, as the gas and water supply to the home had been disconnected for some time.

The powerful explosion not only demolished the house but also caused damage to neighboring properties. Authorities confirmed the gas meter was shut off, and water service had been disconnected. Ann Arbor's fire Chief Mike Kennedy mentioned that the occupant was using propane for heating, with no active gas or water supply to the residence.

The area remained cordoned off for several hours as emergency crews worked diligently to extinguish the blaze and clear the streets of glass debris. Residents recalled the intensity of the explosion, likening it to noisier than any fireworks they had ever heard. The community was shaken by the devastating incident, emphasizing the importance of safety measures in handling heating systems within homes.