Bethel Explosion Leaves One Dead

Authorities investigating cause of blast that destroyed home, killed resident

A massive explosion Tuesday afternoon in Bethel has claimed the life of one resident. The blast destroyed a home in the 600 block of Vic Joy Drive in the Tate Township.

Emergency crews responded to the scene around 1:30 p.m. after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting the explosion. They found the home engulfed in flames and had to wait for the fire to be extinguished before they could begin searching for victims.

The Clermont County Coroner's Office has identified the victim as 65-year-old resident. The cause of death has not yet been released.

The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. Duke Energy crews were called to the scene to check for gas leaks, but they did not find any. The Ohio State Fire Marshal's Office is also assisting with the investigation.

The explosion caused significant damage to the home and several nearby vehicles. The blast also shattered windows in homes up to a quarter-mile away.

The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced residents.