Adam Matzner
State Fire Marshal Agency
WOOD RIVER, NEB. - At approximately 9:16 AM CST, Saturday, March 2, 2024, Wood River Fire Department responded to the report of a residential house explosion at 107 E. Eleventh Street, Wood River with one occupant unaccounted for. Upon arrival, firefighters determined the explosion/fire has also caused significant damage to surrounding structures. Nebraska State Fire Marshal Investigators were requested to aid in the incident investigation.
State Fire Marshal investigators discovered evidence of tampering with the natural gas system in the residence. Investigators have determined the cause of the explosion/fire at 107 E. Eleventh Street, Wood River, to be an act of arson. The deceased suspect was recovered from the basement of the residence late Saturday evening. Identification of the deceased and notification to the next of kin is pending by the Hall County Attorney's Office.
Responding agencies included Wood River Fire Department, Alda Fire Department, Cairo Fire Department, Shelton Fire Department, Grand Island Rural Fire Department, Hall County Emergency Management Agency, Hall County Attorney's Office, Hall County Sheriff's Office and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal.
We would like to reiterate that this incident was not related to the natural gas utility operator and their is no ongoing threat to the public. The State Fire Marshal has completed their on-site investigation.