A tragic explosion and fire has claimed the lives of a mother and her six children in Lamar Township, Pennsylvania, after their home was engulfed in flames on Sunday morning, authorities said.
The victims, identified as 34-year-old Sarah Stolzfus and her children aged between 3 and 11, were trapped inside the residence when emergency responders arrived at about 8:30 a.m. local time. All seven died at the scene.
Investigators say the cause of the explosion is still under active investigation, but early indications point to a possible propane leak inside the home. Officials added that external propane tanks located outside the property remained intact and were not involved in the blast.
Firefighters were unable to enter the structure due to the intensity of the flames, which spread rapidly following the explosion and fully consumed the building.
Neighbours described hearing a sudden blast before seeing the home go up in flames.
The Pennsylvania State Police and the Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit in Montoursville are leading the investigation.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the home had functioning propane detectors or other safety systems in place.
