Springfield Township, OH — A devastating explosion ripped through a house on Hook Road in Springfield Township early today, resulting in one fatality and two injuries. The blast, which occurred in the 4000 block of Hook Road, sent debris flying across the surrounding area and ignited a fire that complicated rescue efforts.
Springfield Township Fire Chief Adam Spellman reported that emergency services were alerted to the scene by dispatch, which initially provided limited details. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a house that had been largely destroyed by the explosion, with a significant debris field encircling the site. The fire, which was concentrated in the basement, was described as intense, with heavy flames visible.
Chief Spellman detailed the challenging rescue operations: "We arrived to find a house with extensive damage and an active fire in the basement. Our primary focus was to control the blaze and locate any potential victims. We discovered one victim outside the house who was quickly transported to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital by our EMS unit. At this time, her condition remains unknown."
Firefighters were also informed of two individuals trapped inside the basement. The rescue teams, working against the odds, managed to bring the fire under control before deploying ladders to access the basement. "We found one victim under a pile of rubble. Fortunately, he was awake and talking despite significant burns," said Spellman. This victim was airlifted to Ohio State Wexner Medical Center in Columbus via LifeFlight helicopter.
The search continued for the second victim, who was found on the opposite side of the basement. Unfortunately, this individual, a woman, was discovered covered in debris with injuries deemed "incompatible with life," and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Richland County coroner's investigator Bob Ball said, “Krista Cramer, 47, of Lexington was pronounced deceased on scene at 3:11pm.”
The explosion and subsequent fire prompted a large-scale response from various local fire departments. Agencies from Plymouth, Troy, Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Crestline, Galion, Mansfield, and Shelby provided mutual aid. "The scale of the explosion necessitated additional resources and manpower," Chief Spellman explained. "We had to move substantial debris, including cinder blocks and furniture, to reach the trapped victims."
In terms of property damage, Chief Spellman noted that a small pole barn on the property sustained damage, but it remains unclear if other nearby structures were affected. No injuries were reported among fire service personnel.
The Ohio State Fire Marshal's Office is conducting a investigation into the cause of the explosion. Chief Spellman emphasized that, as of now, the cause remains undetermined. "Our focus is on the investigation and providing support to those affected by this tragic event."
Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation progresses.
