Police investigate gas explosion that sent two to hospital

WAPPINGER – A gas leak that lead to an explosion at a one-floor cabin in the town is now under investigation by state police.

The explosion happened at around 3:30 p.m. at a residence located at 322 Old Hopewell Road.

New Hackensack firefighters initially responded to what they believed was a building collapse, only to smell propane gas when they arrived on scene.

Two men allegedly moved a gas stove connected to a 100-pound propane tank when they were laying tile, New Hackensack Second Assistant Chief Christopher Saya said. Gas filled the home and was ignited while the two men were inside.

The men survived the explosion and were transported to the emergency room.

"We don't know why they didn't leave the home or if they smelled gas," Saya said. "We're still investigating."

Two of the cabin's walls were destroyed in the explosion.

The homeowner was not at home at the time of the incident, Saya said.

A myriad of causes, including flicking on a light switch, could have ignited the explosion, Saya said. The fire's origin is under investigation, he said.

Amanda Purcell: apurcell@poughkeepsiejournal.com; 845-437-4807, Twitter: @amandajpurcell