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A tragic incident unfolded in Plainfield Township, Michigan, on Tuesday (May 26) when a home exploded, resulting in the death of a man and critical injuries to a woman. The Kent County Sheriff's Office reports that the explosion is believed to be an attempted murder-suicide initiated by the husband.
The explosion, which occurred around 4 a.m., completely destroyed the home. Debris was still on fire when deputies and fire personnel arrived at the scene after receiving nearly 50 calls reporting the explosion. According to Kent County Undersheriff Bryan Muir, "The fire was intentionally set, we believe, by the husband at this point, intending to be a murder-suicide at the residence."
The woman was rescued by neighbors Tim Johnson and a 17-year-old boy. The pair pulled her from the burning home, and she was subsequently taken to the hospital in critical condition. "Without their actions, it is likely she would have perished in the fire," Muir stated.
Johnson, who suffered first- and second-degree burns during the rescue, expressed his hope for the woman's recovery. "She is what was important," he told WOOD-TV. "I just hope she recovers fully."
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but officials preliminarily believe that a natural gas leak in the basement was used to start the fire. There are no concerns about further gas leaks or explosions in the area.
The community has praised Johnson for his bravery, with neighbors calling him a hero. "He literally saved her life," one neighbor remarked. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, expressing their condolences to the affected family.