ORLAND (WGME) -- A devastating explosion and subsequent fire engulfed a house on Soper Road in Orland on Friday morning. The force of the explosion reduced the home to rubble, leaving the community in shock and a family displaced.

According to reports, the incident occurred when a propane leak ignited, causing the explosion that rocked the quiet neighborhood. Four adults were inside the residence at the time and were immediately rushed to the hospital for treatment. Their current condition remains unknown.

Firefighters and emergency crews responded swiftly to the scene, battling the flames and working tirelessly to ensure the safety of surrounding properties. The intensity of the blaze made it challenging for first responders to carry out their operations. The Orland Fire Department, with assistance from neighboring departments, managed to successfully extinguish the flames after several hours of relentless effort.

Preliminary investigations by authorities have confirmed the propane leak as the root cause of the explosion. Propane gas, commonly used for heating and cooking purposes, can be highly flammable if exposed to a spark or open flame. The exact circumstances leading to the leak are currently under scrutiny, and experts will focus their investigation on determining the exact cause and preventing future incidents.

In the midst of the chaos, there was a glimmer of hope as a 140-pound Newfoundland named Zeus miraculously managed to escape from the explosion and subsequent fire. However, despite extensive search efforts by the community, Zeus remains missing, leaving his distraught family longing for his safe return. Local authorities and residents have joined forces in the search, spreading the word through social media and putting up posters in hopes of reuniting Zeus with his loved ones.

The Orland community has rallied around the affected family, offering support, shelter, and assistance in their time of need. Donations are pouring in, including clothing, food, and funds to help them navigate this devastating ordeal.

As the investigation into the explosion continues, local authorities urge residents to prioritize safety by regularly inspecting and maintaining their propane systems. Additionally, they highlight the importance of installing carbon monoxide detectors and regularly checking for any signs of gas leaks.

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking within our homes and underscores the critical importance of taking necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our loved ones.