DRESDEN
A propane tank exploded during a fire early Thursday afternoon that destroyed a home owned by a member of the town’s fire department at 1115 Middle Road.
Albert and Rosemary Lilly were having their Thanksgiving Day meal at their daughter’s house when their home went up quickly in flames, according to fire warden Shari Lilly. Albert Lilly is her brother-in-law.
Shari Lilly said the Red Cross has set up Albert and Rosemary Lilly with temporary housing. Albert Lilly is Fire Chief Gerald Lilly’s brother.
A wood stove probably caused the fire, Shari Lilly said, with the propane tank explosion apparently occuring afterward.
Two firefighters were treated for minor smoke inhalation.
Chief Lilly said the two-story home was totally involved when he arrived at the scene. He believes the house was insured.
Firefighters from Woolwich, Wiscasset, West Bath, Richmond and Pittston helped.
The cause remains under investigation, but the fire is not considered suspicious, Chief Lilly said.
Information from the Associated Press was included in this report.
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