Watch CBS News

1 Dead Following Southwest Florida House Explosion

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

SARASOTA (CBSMiami/AP) — An explosion that blew the roof off a southwest Florida home has left one person dead according to authorities.

Sarasota County firefighters and deputies responded to the Colonial Oaks subdivision Thursday night.

After putting out the fire, rescuers spent the night securing the scene. The blast had actually blown the house's garage door across the street into a neighbor's yard.

When officials began searching the destroyed home Friday, they were able to confirm one fatality. Authorities weren't immediately identifying the victim.

The state fire marshal and local officials will continue to investigate. Firefighters say the cause of the fire appears to be chemical in nature.

(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.