Stafford Twp., New Jersey - A devastating house explosion in Stafford Township claimed the life of a man who suffered severe burns, according to local police. The incident, which occurred early Tuesday morning at 253 Neptune Drive, resulted in the evacuation of nearby residences until the area was declared safe.

Responding promptly to a report of a large explosion and structure fire, officers of the Stafford Township Police arrived at the scene to find the injured man, identified as 45-year-old Kevin Thomas. They provided immediate medical assistance to Thomas on the front lawn of his residence before he was airlifted to Temple University Hospital. Tragically, Thomas succumbed to his injuries shortly after his arrival at the hospital.

Investigations by authorities revealed that the explosion originated from the bedroom of the house. The incident was caused by the release of propane gas from a tank, leading to an open flame within the property, as confirmed by investigators. Further details pertaining to the circumstances surrounding the explosion are currently under investigation.

The Stafford Township Police evacuated neighboring homes for safety precautions and ensured that the area was secure. As a result of the explosion, the affected residence has been declared unlivable, posing a significant setback for the owner.

The community of Stafford Township is deeply saddened by this tragic incident and expresses its condolences to the family and loved ones of Kevin Thomas. Local authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the house explosion and remain focused on ensuring the safety of residents in the area.

The news of this unfortunate event stands as a stark reminder of the importance of proper handling and maintenance of all flammable substances in households. As investigators work diligently to uncover more information, it serves as a crucial moment for the community to reassess safety measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

Anyone with potential information related to the incident is urged to contact the Stafford Township Police Department to aid in the ongoing investigation.