Overview
- The explosion that leveled a Cape St. Claire home on Aug. 20 killed 76-year-old Linda Synowczynski and critically burned her 75-year-old husband Stanley, who died of his injuries on Aug. 28.
- Anne Arundel County fire investigators determined the blast began when the homeowner accidentally cut a propane line while working on the HVAC system and a metal grinder created the spark that ignited gas that had built up inside the house.
- Investigators said the propane delivery made earlier that day did not cause or contribute to the explosion and the delivery company was cleared of responsibility.
- The Anne Arundel County Fire/Arson/Explosives Unit led the multi-agency probe with state and federal partners, using excavators, K-9 teams and on-scene forensics to secure tanks and trace the origin and ignition source.
- Officials urged specific safety steps for gas leaks: leave immediately if you smell gas, call 811 or 911, avoid operating anything that could spark, never attempt DIY repairs to fuel lines, and hire qualified technicians for gas work while maintaining proper alarms.