A man was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries after an acetylene tank stored in the trunk of his car exploded in Holden on Saturday morning, according to a joint statement by Holden Fire Chief Russell Hall, Holden Police Chief Timothy J. Sherblom, and State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine.

Emergency services responded to the scene at 216 Brattle St., where they discovered a severely damaged car and the injured adult man, who had been rescued by neighbors from underneath the vehicle. The man was promptly transported to an area hospital to receive treatment for his injuries.

While the investigation is ongoing, authorities have identified that the explosion was caused by a leak in the acetylene tank, which had been stored in the car's trunk. It is believed that the tank began leaking while the vehicle was parked overnight. The exact source of the ignition has yet to be determined, but investigators assert that it was accidental in nature.

Acetylene, a highly flammable gas commonly used in welding and cutting, poses a significant risk of fire or explosion when leaked in confined spaces, cautioned Jake Wark, spokesman for the Department of Fire Services. The smallest spark can ignite the gas, leading to dire consequences.

Fortunately, the explosion did not result in any significant fire damage beyond the destruction of the vehicle. Authorities are continuing their investigation to ascertain the root cause of the gas leak and to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.

Occurrences like these serve as a reminder of the importance of proper storage and handling of hazardous materials. It is vital for individuals to exercise caution when dealing with flammable substances, ensuring they are securely stored and regularly inspected for leaks.