Mayport woman hurt in fire, blast at home

From staff reports

A Mayport woman was injured in a fire and explosion at her residence Tuesday evening.

A press release from Ridgway-based state police fire marshal Russell Stewart said the incident occurred at about 8 p.m. Tuesday at a single-story residence occupied by Donna Kemmer, 68.

The home was located at 2358 Pine Run Road in Redbank Township, Clarion County, police said.

Kemmer was in bed when she heard a loud explosion and found herself buried under a wall at the residence, police said. She was able to free herself and drove to a neighbor for assistance, according to police.

Kemmer was transported from the scene for treatment of her injuries, police said. No other details about her injuries were released.

Stewart said an investigation by him and Hawthorn firefighters determined that the fire-explosion originated in the basement from migrating natural gas.

The fire has been classified as accidental, Stewart said.

The home, a garage and greenhouse were all determined to be a complete loss, according to Stewart.

Damages were estimated at between $1.5 and $2 million, Stewart said.