Man identified after deadly Kent County house explosion; 5 family members escape safely

Man, family pet killed in Kent County home explosion

A man and a family pet were killed in a home explosion Saturday in Kent County.

CHESTERTOWN, Md. - A deadly house explosion in Chestertown is under investigation after a 68‑year‑old homeowner was killed and five family members escaped.

The blast happened around 5:45 p.m. Friday at a home on Pentridge Court in Chestertown. Firefighters arrived to find the roughly 5,000‑square‑foot house fully engulfed and learned one person was still inside. The victim’s wife, children and grandchildren, had been in another part of the home and were able to get out safely.

Deputy State Fire Marshals worked through the night and recovered the victim, identified as Charles William Heaps, beneath several layers of rubble. A family pet also died.

Man identified after deadly Kent County house explosion; 5 family members escape safely

Family members told investigators the home exploded before flames spread. Based on their statements, officials believe Heaps had been working near a wood stove at the time of the explosion. While the exact cause remains under investigation, fire marshals say propane vapors or an electrical event may have triggered the explosion. Damage is estimated at $2 million, and the home is considered a total loss.

"This is a tragic incident that underscores how quickly conditions inside a home can change when flammable gases or vapors are present," said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. "We urge residents to ensure heating equipment is properly maintained and to remain alert to any unusual odors or conditions inside their homes."

A joint investigation with Maryland State Police is underway, which is standard procedure in fatal fires.