Fatal House Explosion in Bethel, Suspected to Involve HVAC Work or Gas, Kills Two and Critically Injures One
A peaceful morning in Bethel turned into a scene of tragedy on Tuesday when a massive explosion destroyed a home on Vic Joy Drive, claiming two lives and leaving one person critically injured. The blast occurred at approximately 8:44 a.m., shattering the quiet atmosphere and sending debris flying across the neighborhood. The force of the explosion was so powerful that it rattled nearby homes, cracked windows, and scattered remnants of the destroyed property into adjacent yards.
Emergency crews responded swiftly after reports of the explosion flooded in. Bethel-Tate Fire Chief Christopher Cooper described the scene upon arrival as chaotic, with heavy flames and widespread debris. The fire, fueled by the blast, required the combined efforts of four fire departments to bring it under control. Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames within 45 minutes, but the home was entirely reduced to rubble.
The victims of this tragic incident were identified as Barry and his girlfriend, Hellen Colston, also known locally as Lucy Colston or Lucy Evans. Hellen, 52, leaves behind a grieving family that includes her child, grandchildren, nieces, and two sisters. In addition to the deceased, an HVAC technician who was present at the property sustained severe burns in the explosion. He was airlifted to the UC Medical Center, where he remains in critical condition, receiving specialized care.
The property, widely recognized in the community as “the cat house” due to the numerous cats seen there, also suffered further losses. During the emergency response, firefighters rescued three cats from the wreckage, and the animals were taken to a veterinarian for urgent care.
Witnesses in the neighborhood described the explosion as “deafening,” with the shockwave waking many from their sleep and leaving them in a state of fear and confusion. Doorbell camera footage of the blast, which quickly circulated on social media, vividly captured the scale of the disaster and has become a focal point in the ongoing investigation.
The Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the probe into the cause of the explosion. Investigators have begun meticulously sifting through the wreckage and reviewing evidence to determine what triggered the catastrophic event. Officials are appealing to residents to share any photos, videos, or information that could assist in uncovering the truth behind this tragedy.
Chief Cooper expressed the community’s collective grief, stating, “This is a devastating loss for the community. Our thoughts are with the victims’ families as we work to uncover what caused this tragedy and ensure the safety of all residents.”
The explosion left a visible scar on the neighborhood, with several nearby homes sustaining structural damage. Residents reported finding fragments of debris in their yards and experiencing cracked windows from the force of the blast. Despite the destruction, the community has come together in support of the affected families and the critically injured victim, showing resilience in the face of tragedy.
As the investigation continues, the town of Bethel mourns the lives lost and hopes for answers. This tragic incident has not only highlighted the fragility of life but also underscored the importance of community solidarity during times of crisis.
