State investigators are working to determine what caused a house to explode and erupt into fire Sunday evening near Cleveland.
Around 8:30 p.m. on October 8, White County E911 operators received reports of an explosion and residential fire in the area of Gunns Circle, approximately 5 miles east of Cleveland. When firefighters arrived, they found three people who escaped the blaze. No one else was in the roughly 2,500-square-foot residence.
White County EMS transported the injured individuals to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville. Officials have not released their names or conditions.
“Fire personnel were able to quickly contain the fire, preventing it from spreading to nearby structures,” says White County Public Information Officer Bryce Barrett.
Once the fire was out, fire personnel surveyed surrounding homes for damage from the explosion. They remained on scene throughout the night, putting out hot spots to prevent the fire from reigniting.
The Cleveland Fire Department provided mutual aid. White County Emergency Management deployed a drone to survey the scene and provide overwatch for fire personnel. White County EMA’s Community Emergency Response Team also responded with its Rehab truck to prevent firefighters from being overcome by heat and exhaustion.
The cause of the explosion and fire are unknown at this time. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating.
Residents within a two-mile radius who have property damage due to the explosion should report damage to White County E911 Communications by calling 706-865-0911.
