A devastating natural gas explosion in Taunton, Massachusetts, left a mother and her young daughter injured and displaced from their home earlier this week. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning, February 25, as 25-year-old Lucitha Blanc and her two-year-old daughter, Jenelle Germilus, were preparing pancakes in their second-floor apartment.
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According to local fire officials, the explosion destroyed the three-family residence and resulted in flames engulfing the building. Lucitha and Jenelle sustained injuries in the blast, prompting a rapid response from first responders. Lucitha was transported to Rhode Island Hospital, while her daughter was taken to Hasbro Children’s Hospital for treatment.
Lucitha’s boyfriend, Shnider Germilus, described the chaotic moment during a phone call with the pair when the explosion occurred. He recounted a loud ‘boom’ followed by the sound of their daughter screaming, as Lucitha reportedly turned on the stove, triggering the explosion just moments before it happened. Gerimlus expressed his initial confusion about the incident and the panic that followed.
Fire Chief Steven P. Lavigne confirmed that Lucitha managed to escape the initial blast but bravely returned to the apartment when she realised her daughter was still inside. It is believed that Lucitha may not have detected the presence of natural gas before the explosion due to a cold she was suffering from at the time.
Emergency rescue efforts were complicated by the aftermath of a significant snowstorm that had dropped nearly 30 inches of snow across Taunton earlier in the week. Neighbour William Shivers reported that local residents banded together to assist emergency services by digging out fire hydrants buried under the snow. Shivers recounted feeling the intense heat from the flames as he witnessed the explosion from his home.
The Taunton Fire Department continues to investigate the cause and specific location of the gas leak. In a statement, Chief Lavigne extended thoughts and prayers to the injured mother and daughter, along with all those affected by the explosion.
In light of the incident, a GoFundMe page has been launched to help the family cope with mounting medical bills and the loss of their home. As of Thursday, the fundraiser had garnered over £30,000, highlighting the community’s support for Lucitha and Jenelle. The page detailed the challenges the family faces, stating that nearly all of their belongings were lost in the explosion.
Germilus expressed gratitude for the recovery of his girlfriend and daughter, stating he looks forward to being able to hold Jenelle once she is fully healed. The devastation has not only affected Lucitha and Jenelle but also impacted the other families residing in the building, as police reported that eight residents have been displaced due to the explosion.
The building, described as a total loss, housed three families, with two adjacent residences sustaining serious damage from the fire. As the investigation continues, the local community remains engaged, offering help and support to those impacted by the tragedy.