House destroyed in explosion; authorities searching for arsonist

ELBERT COUNTY, Ga. — Authorities are searching for the person who caused a house to explode in Georgia.

Fire investigators with the Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner’s Office were called to investigate a house explosion Thursday morning in Elbert County.

“The 1,320 square-foot, 19-year-old residence was completely destroyed by the explosion and ensuing fire. Thankfully, no one was living in the residence at the time,” said Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King. “Further examination of the structure determined that the explosion was caused by an air-fuel mixture, which then lit the residence on fire, completely destroying it.”

Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward and call the Fire Investigations Unit at 1‐800‐282‐5804. Rewards are offered of up to $10,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the arsonist(s). Calls are taken 24 hours a day and callers can choose to remain anonymous.

Fire Investigators with the Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner’s Office are assisting the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office and the Elbert County Fire Department with this investigation.

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